Burlington County Holds Flu Vaccine and COVID Vaccine Clinics

The Burlington County Health Department warns that influenza activity in the area is high, so it’s important to get protection from a seasonal flu shot.

“Flu season is here and it’s already looking like a bad season compared to past years, so we recommend everyone get their flu shot every year and get a COVID-19 shot or booster” said Burlington County Health Department Director Dr. Herb Conaway. “With the holiday season approaching, it is imperative that everyone, and vulnerable residents in particular, take precautions. This will help protect you and those around you.

Residents who have not yet had their annual flu shot can get one at one of four upcoming clinics scheduled at the Department of Health, 15 Pioneer Boulevard, Westampton. Clinics are scheduled for December 15 starting at 2 p.m. 4:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Dec. 29 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Jan. 3 from 10 a.m. to noon.

All four clinics will be walk-in and are open to anyone aged six months or older. The vaccine is available free to county residents, but donations are accepted.

All residents six months and older are encouraged to get vaccinated, but health officials stress that the vaccine is especially important for the elderly, young children, and people with weakened immune or cardiovascular systems, or who suffer from chronic metabolic disease, kidney dysfunction or blood disorders. Pregnant women and those who live or work with elderly residents, young children, or people with chronic health conditions are also strongly recommended to get the flu shot.

Influenza activity is currently considered high in all areas of New Jersey, including Burlington County. Statewide, more than 33,000 confirmed cases of the flu have been reported so far this season, according to the New Jersey Department of Health, which monitors cases of flu and other respiratory illnesses. The department’s oversight includes reports from hospitals, schools, and long-term care facilities.

In addition to vaccines, residents are encouraged to take the same precautions that have been encouraged during the worst COVID outbreaks, including frequent hand washing, using hand sanitizer and wearing a high-quality, fitted face mask. when they are in the crowd or indoors. Residents who feel ill with symptoms should also stay home.

“The same precautions that helped curb the spread of COVID-19 also help control the spread of seasonal flu,” Dr. Conaway said. “Those most at risk from both influenza and COVID should consider masking up in public, and we encourage everyone to get vaccinated and help protect those who are vulnerable.”

Health officials are also warning that strains of COVID also remain active and can still pose a threat, especially to unvaccinated people.

The County Health Department continues to administer COVID vaccines and bivalent boosters at weekly clinics at the following locations:

• Wednesdays 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Gibson House Community Center, 535 East Mains Street, Evesham
• Thursdays from noon to 6 p.m. at the Bordentown Senior Center, 3 Municipal Drive, Bordentown;
• Saturdays 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Burlington County Health Department, 15 Pioneer Boulevard, Westampton.

Clinic appointments can be made online at https://patientportal.advancedmd.com/149623/onlinescheduling/v2/providers or by calling (844) 569-0390 during normal business hours.

“Influenza activity is high, but we are seeing a significant increase in all respiratory illnesses, including COVID,” Conaway said. “Vaccines offer the best defense, so if you still haven’t had either vaccine, don’t wait any longer.”