NEWS RELEASE
Salem County Board of Chosen Freeholders
94 Market Street. Salem, N.J. 08079
December 6, 2004
Contact: Carla Kephart
County Health Educator/ Risk Communicator
(856) 935-7510 x8304
County Again Extends Flu Vaccine Deadline
Thanks to South Jersey Health Care, Cumberland and Salem Health Departments have received an additional 1,000 doses that the hospital system donated. "We are giving 200 doses to Vineland, 250 to Salem and the remaining 550 doses will go to Cumberland County Health Department", Herbert Roeschke Public Health Coordinator for the Cumberland and Salem County Health Departments stated.
The generosity of South Jersey Health Care has provided us with the ability to offer flu shots to those that may not have received one yet, Roeschke added. The Health Departments would not have this opportunity if it were not for the kindness and public concern of South Jersey Health Care System.
Residents of Salem County can apply by calling 935-7510 extension 8477 or extension 8475, on Dec. 7th, 8th and 9th, between the times of 9:00AM and 4:00PM. "We are trying to give those that are high risk every opportunity to receive a flu shot, and we feel this is the quickest way to provide protection to the public" Roeschke stated.
The Health Department is still required to follow CDC guidelines and give the shot only those that are high risk, which are as follows:
The high risk groups are:
· All children 6-23 months of age;
· Adults 65 years of age and older;
· All women who will be pregnant during the flu season;
· Anyone between the ages of 2-64 years with chronic conditions, such as chronic heart or lung conditions, including asthma, metabolic diseases (diabetes), chronic kidney disease, or weakened immune system);
· Residents of nursing homes and long-term care facilities;
· Children aged 6 months – 18 years on chronic aspirin therapy;
· Health Care workers involved in direct patient care;
· And out of home caregivers and household contacts of children aged less than 6 months.
Residents who receive the flu vaccine are still asked to bring the following items:
· Proof of residency
· Proof of age or a doctor’s note stating that they are high risk
Roeschke again wanted to remind everyone that there are actions they can take to protect themselves and there families:
· Covering your nose and mouth when coughing.
· Use tissues when you sneeze or cough.
· Wash hands often using warm water and soap. Alcohol-based gels and wipes also work well, especially after sneezing or coughing.
· If possible stay home when you are sick.