Flu shots will be given Sept. 29

By: centraljersey.com
Influenza immunizations will be given free to Hopewell Valley residents 65 and older on Sept. 29, from 1-3:30 p.m., at the Hopewell Township Municipal Building, 201 Washington Crossing-Pennington Road. Titusville.
All Valley residents, ages 18-64, also can get vaccinated for seasonal flu for a fee of $12. Only cash or checks payable to Hopewell Township will be accepted.
Residents should call 737-0120, ext. 636, to make an appointment. Call between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. If there is no answer, leave name and phone number. The call will be returned.
To avoid long lines and parking problems, the Hopewell Township Department of Health schedules 60 people every 15 minutes. Residents are urged to arrive at the time of their scheduled appointments and to wear short-sleeved apparel.
"Flu vaccine should not be taken by anyone who is allergic to eggs or has an acute febrile illness. Side effects and adverse reactions are rare. Some soreness or tenderness may occur at the site of the injection," Gary Guarino, health officer, said.
Those who have Medicare cards should bring them to the clinic. Hopewell Township submits for reimbursement under Medicare Part B for the flu immunizations. "Check with your physician or insurance carrier since these vaccinations may be available free of charge through your health plan," said Mr. Guarino.
Anyone who is homebound and/or physically impaired should make special arrangements to get immunized by calling the public health nurse at 737-0120, ext. 638.
Flu vaccinations are being recommended by the Center for Disease Control for everyone 6 months old and up. For more information, go to the seasonal flu fact sheet at www.cdc.gov/flu/.
Mr. Guarino said "local physicians may have vaccine on hand. Additionally, many of the chain pharmacies also are providing flu and other adult vaccinations. You may find these on their websites and at www.findaflushot.com or at the state Department of Health’s website: www.nj.gov/health/flu/findflushot.shtml.
– Ruth Luse