Burlington County Health Department officials are warning residents that flu activity is increasing across the state but that it’s not too late to obtain a seasonal flu vaccine.
There are two Burlington County flu shot clinics remaining on Dec. 28 (10 AM to 2 PM) and Jan. 4 (10 AM to noon) at the Burlington County Health Department offices, 15 Pioneer Boulevard in Westampton. Anyone who has not already obtained a flu shot is encouraged to attend.
More than 12,300 flu cases have been reported across New Jersey, according to the latest surveillance numbers from the New Jersey Department of Health. Currently Burlington County is classified as having “moderate” flu activity, though health officials warn that activity will likely increase as a result of holiday gatherings.
Lab-reported COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations are rising too, so health officials are also urging residents to get the updated COVID-19 vaccine.
“Already we’ve seen an uptick in reported flu cases and hospitalizations across the county and here in New Jersey, and we know flu and COVID-19 activity typically increase over the holidays when families and friends gather together,” said Dr. Herb Conaway, director of the Burlington County Health Department. “The seasonal flu shot and updated COVID shot offer the best protection, so it’s imperative for those who haven’t gotten both their seasonal flu vaccine and COVID booster to get them as soon as possible.”
Both remaining County flu shot clinics are walk-up, no-appointment needed. Anyone 6 months or older are eligible for the vaccination, which is offered free-of-charge. Donations are accepted and help ensure adequate supplies of vaccine are available.
Most Burlington County residents can obtain a COVID-19 vaccine from their pharmacy or health provider. Most health insurance plans will also cover COVID-19 vaccine at no cost.
COVID-19 vaccination locations can be found at vaccines.gov or by calling the statewide COVID-19 Vaccine Call Center (855-568-0545).
Burlington County also runs a weekly COVID-19 vaccine clinic Fridays from 1 to 4 PM at the Burlington County Health Department. The clinic is primarily for young children 6 months to 11-years-old because this population has difficulty obtaining the updated vaccine from pharmacies and pediatricians.
Appointments are required for the County’s COVID shots and can be made online at https://tinyurl.com/BCHDCOVIDVAX.
The County also has a small supply of COVID-19 shots for residents 12 and up who are either uninsured or severely underinsured. Those residents should contact the Health Department at 609-265-5548 to inquire about their vaccination options.
Burlington County Commissioner Dan O’Connell, the liaison to the Health Department, said the clinics were being held to ensure that all residents have access to flu and COVID vaccines and the protection they offer.
“The Burlington County Health Department continues to go above and beyond to protect public health and break down the barriers that prevent people from accessing vaccines and other preventative health services,” said O’Connell. “Our Board is grateful for the essential services our Health Department continues to perform.”