Influenza (Flu) Information
What is the Flu?
Steps to stay healthy this flu season
The Health Department is continuing its efforts to limit the effects of each flu season by offering seasonal flu shots.
Remember, it is recommended that you stay home if you are feeling sick to reduce the chances of spreading the Flu.
Flu shots available by appointment
To make an appointment, call the Health Department at 732-431-7456.
The vaccines are usually free to seniors with Medicare Part B. The Health Department does not accept or bill insurance companies, but will provide a receipt suitable for submission to a health insurance company.
Clinic participants will be screened by a nurse regarding risk factors and educated about the vaccine. A parent or guardian must sign a vaccine consent form for children six months to 18 years of age.
Vaccine Information
Generally anyone over six months of age can receive the seasonal inactivated influenza vaccine. We strongly urge anyone at risk of flu-related complications to get the seasonal vaccine from the Health Department or your health care provider.
Individuals who should not receive the influenza vaccine are:
- those with severe allergy to eggs and egg proteins
- anyone with a previous life threatening reaction to a flu vaccine
- individuals with a history of Guillain-Barre syndrome after a flu vaccine
The Influenza vaccine is recommended for anyone who lives with or cares for people at high risk for flu-related complications, including health care providers, household contacts and caregivers of children from birth to 5 years of age, and household contacts and caregivers of people 50 years and older or with medical conditions that put them at higher risk for severe complications from influenza.
A yearly influenza vaccination should be considered for people who provide essential community services and those living in dormitories or under other crowded conditions.
We are actively encouraging people to get the seasonal influenza vaccine. The County works with local health partners to monitor the seasonal influenza and other public health concerns.
County residents can help reduce the spread of the seasonal flu by continuing to use some good hygiene habits. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly and cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or your sleeve when you cough or sneeze. If soap and water are not available and you are using a hand sanitizer, be sure it is at least 60 percent alcohol.
The Health Department holds its annual seasonal flu shot clinics in member municipalities during October.
Flu clinics are available throughout the County without needing an appointment. Use the Flu Vaccine Finder below to locate a clinic near you (cost may vary based on insurance and provider).
Click here to search for other vaccinations available in your area.
Prevent the spread of influenza by watching the Monmouth In Focus segment What about Vaccinations? The Center for Disease Control (CDC) provides updated data and information about the flu. Learn about vaccinations and get important frequently asked questions answered. Click here to visit CDC's Seasonal Flu Microsite.