Senior Health Fair Kicks Off Flu Shot Program

The Camden County Freeholders have scheduled 19 site locations for the 2012 Seasonal Influenza and Pneumonia Immunization Program.  As is the tradition, the program begins at the annual Senior Health Fair, which this year takes place on Wednesday, October 10 in Cooper River Park, starting at 10:00 a.m. and continuing through 2:00 p.m. 

“In order to keep your family healthy this flu season, we encourage you to take advantage of this beneficial service provided by Camden County,” said Freeholder Carmen Rodriguez, liaison to the Camden County Health Department.  “We are hosting immunization sites at convenient locations across Camden County, including the annual Senior Health Fair at Cooper River Park.”

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, now in its 18th year. 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 1-800-955-2446 toll-free to RSVP.

Freeholder Carmen Rodriguez explained that the launch of the flu shot program is traditionally coordinated with the senior health fair because men and women age 65 and older are among the “high priority” groups for annual shots. Rodriguez reminded seniors receiving MEDICARE to bring their Medicare ID cards with them.

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.

For other information, contact the county Department of Health and Human Services at 1-800-999-9045, or log onto www.camdencounty.com the county’s website.