Flu Vaccines Grossly Limited in Hackettstown

Deaths caused by influenza in 2013 reached epidemic levels late last week, according to a report in the New York Times, but the government-run Center for Disease Control (CDC) says it may have peaked.

Either way, the organization says those who have yet to receive a flu shot should still do so, as the current outbreak continues to work its way through the country. The height of flu season is February, according to the CDC.

While the CDC says this season's flu vaccine is anywhere between 50 and 70-percent effective, the inoculation is hard to come by in the Hackettstown area.

Pharmacist Angie Shorette of Walgreens in Hackettstown said the demand has become greater than the supply–one that is already limited.

Shorette said the pharmacy was expecting a new shipment of vaccines to arrive Monday afternoon, but it would be a limited number, likely around 20 doses. Cost at Walgreens for the vaccine is $31.99 without insurance.

The current strand of influenza ravaging the nation has claimed the lives of 20 children, the New York Times reported. In a typical year, the report said, just 37-percent of Americans receive the inoculation.

Pharmacist Scott Dieck at the Washington Township Target said there were six doses of the vaccine available Monday afternoon, but was unsure of when the next shipment would arrive. Orders for the vaccine have been placed on a daily basis by the pharmacy, Dieck said.

Cost of the inoculation at Target without insurance is $28.

Some pharmacies aren't even dealing with the chaos of ordering and vaccinating the populace, like Skylands Community Pharmacy on Main Street.

The store is referring all customers to get their shots from the Warren County Public Health Department, which, according to an automated message has vaccines available for everyone ages 6 months and up.

Appointments are necessary and can be made by calling 908-689-6000. Cost is $15 for insured, and $10 for uninsured or underinsured.