Jefferson Health Awarded $150K By National Council On Aging

Press release from Jefferson Health:

April 12, 2023

Jefferson Health – New Jersey is pleased to announce that it has been awarded a $150,000 grant by the National Council on Aging (NCOA) for the COVID-19 and Influenza Vaccine Uptake Initiative. The program is supported with funding from the Administration for Community Living, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

The grant will support Jefferson Health’s work in making it as easy as possible for older adults and people with disabilities to get their updated vaccinations and protect their health. Jefferson Health – NJ will use the funds to reach the disabled and elderly – including those with limited English language proficiency – who have limited trusted information and support regarding vaccine appointments. Jefferson NJ also will host vaccine clinics.

Today, nearly nine out of 10 deaths from COVID-19 are among people 65 and over, and 70-85% of seasonal flu-related deaths occur in older adults, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While life-saving vaccines are available, research shows COVID-19 vaccine uptake has slowed among older adults. Thanks to this grant, Jefferson Health – NJ will organize a robust vaccination program to address this challenge in Burlington County, NJ.

“We are thrilled to receive this grant to increase COVID-19 and influenza vaccines for those who greatly need them in Burlington County,” said Jefferson Health – New Jersey Infection Control Officer Cindy Hou, DO, FIDSA. “Jefferson Health is deeply committed to addressing heath disparities in the communities we serve.”

This press release was produced by Jefferson Health. The views expressed here are the author's own.