The Camden County Department of Health and Human Services ramped up its efforts to protect the community by offering a series of free flu vaccination clinics, including one on Oct. 31 at the Magnolia Community Center.
“Getting your flu shot is a critical tool to preventing serious illness from the flu,” stated county Commissioner Virginia Betteridge, liaison to the Department of Health and Human Services, of the annual immunization program.
“As we are now in flu season, we encourage everyone – especially those who are elderly or immuno-compromised – to take advantage of these clinics to ensure they were fully protecting their health.”
The flu can pose significant health risks, especially to vulnerable populations like pregnant women, the elderly and individuals with chronic illnesses. It can also lead to severe complications for those with weakened immune systems or pre-existing health conditions, including cardiovascular issues and chronic metabolic diseases.
The Magnolia clinic and others in the county aimed to make flu shots accessible to as many residents as possible, including children 9 and older accompanied by an adult. Two flu shots spaced a month apart are necessary for younger children. Health officials were on hand to assist and provide information about the vaccine and its benefits.
While the flu is often seen as a routine, yearly illness, the importance of vaccinations against it can’t be overstated, especially in light of ongoing public-health concerns related to respiratory illnesses. The shots have proved effective in reducing not only the incidence of the flu, but hospitalizations and complications as well. The county clinics aim to ensure that residents have access.
In addition to vaccinations, health officials recommend that residents take other precautions to minimize their risk of flu, including frequent hand washing; avoiding close contact with the sick; and practicing good respiratory hygiene, such as covering coughs and sneezes.
Betteridge emphasized the collective responsibility in combating the illness.
“It’s crucial for everyone to do their part to protect themselves and those around them,” she noted. “Vaccination is one of the best ways to contribute to community health and safety.”
For more details about the flu shot clinic or other health-related inquiries, residents are advised to visit the health department website or contact its offices directly. Resources are also available for families with uninsured children by calling Camcare at (856) 541-9811 or the Bellmawr health center at (856) 931-2700.
