Flu shot program kicks off in October

The Board of Commissioners has scheduled 14 locations for the 2022 Seasonal Influenza Immunization Program. As is the tradition, the program begins at the annual Senior Health Fair, which this year takes place on Oct. 5 at the Scottish Rite Ballroom, 315 White Horse Pike in Collingswood, starting at 10 a.m. and continuing through 1 p.m.

“Every year the flu sickens thousands of people and in some extreme cases can be a deadly virus. That said, we can avoid this virus by getting our flu shot and the Health Department is here to help,” said Commissioner Virginia Betteridge, liaison to the Camden County Health Department. “Being up to date on your flu shot will protect you from getting seriously ill while also protecting those around you this flu season. And while COVID-19 is still present in our communities, it’s imperative that everyone is as protected from these illnesses as possible.”

In addition to seasonal flu shots, the Senior Health Fair will feature dozens of health information tables, games and prizes and lunch for all senior citizens who attend the annual Senior Fair. The flu shots are provided for no-out-of-pocket cost. Seniors that register with the Camden County Division of Senior and Disabled Services will enjoy a complimentary lunch at the fair. Call (800) 955-2446 toll-free to RSVP.

The launch of the flu shot program is traditionally coordinated with the senior health fair because men and women ages 65 and older are among the “high priority” groups for annual shots. Seniors receiving Medicare should bring their identification cards with them.

“The flu shot program has always been a critical component to help us bolster and preserve the public health here in Camden County,” Betteridge continued. “Our public health personnel will be traveling throughout the county to bring the shot to our most vulnerable populations for free in preparation for flu season.”

Pregnant women and chronically ill people are other high priority groups. Flu shots are also recommended for people with weakened immune or cardiovascular systems, or with chronic metabolic diseases, renal dysfunction or blood disorders. Youngsters aged 9 and older must be accompanied by an adult; those under the age of nine are not included in the program.

Children under 9 need two shots, a month apart, and should be seen by a pediatrician.  For uninsured children, call CamCare at (856) 541-9811 or the Bellmawr Health Center at (856) 931-2700.

The Camden County Health Department will be administering flu shots at the following locations:

For other information, contact the county Department of Health and Human Services at (856) 374-6365 or visit www.camdencounty.com/flu.