Ocean County Flu And Pneumonia Shot Clinics in Full Swing

Need a flu or pneumonia shot? The Ocean County Health Department is here to help.

The health department has already begun a full slate of 55 clinics. For a complete schedule of clinics, go to www.ochd.org and click on flu clinic schedule.

Protection is offered in three flu different flu vaccines. They include"

* A regular dose injection in the muscle for all people six months and older.

* A high dose injection in the muscle is to provide a higher immunity level for people 65 years and older.

* An intradermal injection into the skin for people 18 to 64 years of age. The pneumococcal vaccine, or the pneu shot, is also being offered at the clinics for people 65 years of age or older.

The Centers for Disease Control recommends getting a flu shot in early fall, before it begins to spread in your community. It takes about two weeks for the shot to become effective.

"The CDC recommends that people get a flu vaccine by the end of October, if possible," according to the CDC website. " Getting vaccinated later, however, can still be beneficial and vaccination should continue to be offered throughout the flu season, even into January or later."

Vaccinations are especially important for pregnant women, people with chronic diseases, infants and children, Ocean County Public Health Coordinator Daniel Regenye said.

"There are thousands of deaths each year due to the seasonal flu and even more require hospitalization," he said.

Medicare Part B will covers the cost of a flu and pneu shot. For those without Medicare Part B or have a Medicare Managed Care Plan, the cost is $20.00. A physician’s note or prescription is required for a pneumonia shot for those under the age of 65.

In addition to the flu/pneu shots, some of the clinics will offer other adult immunizations, including the Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and shingles as well as blood pressure readings, osteoporosis screenings and stroke risk assessments.

For more information on the flu/pneu clinic schedule please refer to the OCHD website at www.ochd.org or call 732-341-9700, ext. 7604, or follow the Health Department at Twitter@OCpublichealth or like the Health Department on Facebook.

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