Flu shots now available for seniors
The Burlington County Health Department will start its seasonal flu campaign with 6 clinics that will offer the Fluzone High-Dose vaccine for individuals 65 and older. Clinics will be held September 22 and 29 and October 6 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at both the Burlington Center and Moorestown Malls. These first clinics will be Fluzone High-Dose only and is free for those with Medicare Part B as their primary insurance. Other insurances will be accepted, but residents should check with their insurance provider to ensure that the vaccination is covered by their insurance. For those without Medicare Part B or whose insurance does not cover Fluzone High-Dose the cost will be $45.
“A flu shot is the easiest way to protect you and your loved ones from the risk and misery of the flu,” Freeholder Mary Ann O’Brien said. “It only takes a few minutes to guard against getting a serious illness.”
New this year, the Health Department will allow residents to schedule their flu shot by visiting the Health Department website, www.co.burlington.nj.us/health. People can schedule their appointments online starting the week of September 19 and will be able to schedule an appointment beginning with the drive thru flu clinic on October 15. Residents who have scheduled their appointment online and bring the printed and completed consent form will be fast tracked through the clinic. Walk-ins will still be welcome, but may have to wait in line.
Traditional or “standard” dose seasonal flu vaccine and pneumonia vaccine will be offered at all of the other clinics. The County Health Department accepts Medicare Part “B” to cover the cost for seasonal flu and pneumonia vaccines. A donation of $15 for seasonal flu vaccine and $25 for pneumo is recommended by those not covered by Medicare if residents can afford it.
People, who have Medicare coverage and belong to a managed care plan or HMO, should go to their regular health care providers to receive immunizations.
“We recommend that all individuals receive a flu vaccine regardless of whether you had one last year,” Robert Gogats, Health Officer for Burlington County said. “The CDC calls a yearly flu vaccine the first and most important step in protecting against this serious disease.”
