Health Department Warns Residents of H1N1 Flu Surge

The Bernards Township Health Department issued a press release today urging residents who have not yet been vaccinated to attend one of the four upcoming clinics in February and early March.

Department officials are predicting an increase in the number of those affected by the H1N1 virus over the coming months.

"This H1N1 virus is not over yet and is expected to continue well into the spring," Bernards Township Health Officer Lucy A. Forgione said in the release. "We recommend the vaccine for all, but especially for children, teens, young adults and those with chronic conditions, because the H1N1 virus is still causing hospitalizations and deaths in those groups."

The next clinics are:

• Monday, Feb. 1, 4-6 p.m. at Ridge High School
• Monday, Feb. 8, 4-6 p.m. at Ridge High School
• Tuesday, Feb. 16, 4-6 p.m. at Mendham High School (65 E. Main St, Mendham, NJ)
• Monday, March 1, 4-6 p.m. at Ridge High School

All of the clinics are free and open to anyone, and appointments should be made through the 'Shotline' at www.greatersomerseth1n1.org or by calling (908) 533-9330. Walk-ins will only be served at each of the clinics if there is extra vaccine available.

Updated information, including weather-realted cancellation of clinics, can be found on the Health department website at www.bernardshealth.org.