Health Department Holding Seasonal Flu Clinics

Seasonal flu shots will be available to the public at four clinics during October scheduled by the Bernards Township Health Department.

Seasonal influenza is a contagious, respiratory illness caused by a virus which is preventable by a vaccine, according to information released by the health department. The vaccine takes about two weeks to become effective against flu and provides protection for about six months.

All clinics are open to those age four and older. The health department serves residents of Bernards Township, Bernardsville, Long Hill Township, Peapack and Gladstone Borough, Chester Borough and Mendham Borough and Township.

Flu shots will be distributed from 9 to 11 a.m. at clinics scheduled on Wednesday, Oct. 12 at St. James Church, 184 S. Finley Ave. in Basking Ridge; on Thursday, Oct. 13, at the Chester Field House, 107 Seminary Ave. in Chester; on Friday, Oct. 21 at the Peapack-Gladstone Municipal Building, 1 School St. in Peapack; and on Saturday, Oct. 22 at the Bernards Township Community Center, 289 S. Maple Ave. in Basking Ridge.

Protection provided by the vaccine declines over time. Flu season can start as early as October and continue through May although the number of seasonal flu infections peak in January and February.

The cost of the flu shot is $20 for residents and $30 for non-residents. Shots also are available for no charge for those with a valid Medicare Part B card. Participants should consult with their doctor before receiving the flu vaccine. Clinical services are provided by the Visiting Nurse Association of Somerset Hills. For additional information, call (908) 204-2520.

New Jersey law requires that children up to 59 months of age attending any licensed child-care center or pre-school facility, must receive at least one dose of influenza vaccine between Sept. 1 and Dec. 31 of each year. To assist parents in obtaining this vaccination for their pre-school child, the Bernards Township Health Department has scheduled our Seasonal Flu Shot clinics to include children who are age 4 and older in addition to administering flu vaccine to adults.

For more information, visit the Bernards Township website.