Health Dept. Offers Flu Clinics In Berkeley

BERKELEY, NJ — The Ocean County Health Department will offer several flu and pneumonia clinics beginning in October. Last year's flu season was one of the worst in decades, the OCHD said. So the department encourages residents of all ages to get vaccinated.

The OCHD will offer standard-dose flu vaccines to children and adults. People under 65 can also present a prescription or physician's note for a pneumonia shot.

People 65 and older can receive a higher-dose flu vaccine and a pneumonia shot.

No registration is required.

"Both the flu and pneumo vaccines are important for our senior residents," OCHD Public Health Coordinator Daniel E. Regenye said in a statement. "People who get the flu may be more susceptible to infection with the bacteria that can lead to this type of pneumonia, which is very common in people over the age of 65."

Medicare Part B covers the flu and pneumo shot at all OCHD clinics. If you're not enrolled, vaccinations will cost $20 (cash or check).

Here's the schedule for Berkeley:

• Oct. 1, 10 a.m. to noon: Holiday City South Clubhouse, 139 Santiago Dr.
• Oct. 2, 10 a.m. to noon: Holiday City Carefree Clubhouse, 98 Bananier Dr.
• Oct. 15, 3-5 p.m.: Holiday City West Clubhouse, 45 Cabrillo Blvd.
• Nov. 12, 5-7 p.m.: Berkeley Library, 30 Station Rd.

This year's theme is "The Flu Ends with U."

This points out that the flu shot will not only protect you, but that we each have a hand in protecting those around us,” said Berkeley Township Mayor Carmen F. Amato, Jr.

Homebound individuals can call the OCHD at 732-341-9700 ext. 7604 to schedule an appointment for a flu shot in your home.

For more information, visit www.ochd.org.

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