Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone and Health Commissioner Dr. James Tomarken today announced that the county will offer free influenza immunization to residents six months of age and older who are uninsured or whose health insurance does not cover flu immunization. The announcement follows reports of a sharp increase in recent weeks in the number of flu cases in New York State.
“The health and wellness of our residents is of utmost importance,” said County Executive Bellone. “The flu has been on the rise and we want residents to know it is not too late to protect yourself and your loved ones from what can turn into a debilitating disease by getting immunized as soon as possible.”
“We ask residents to obtain immunization against the flu to protect not only themselves but others who may be especially vulnerable to the flu, especially infants who are too young to be immunized, pregnant women, older residents and those with other health conditions that make them more vulnerable to flu,” said Dr. Tomarken.
The health department will be providing flu immunizations at the following locations and times:
Thursday, January 16, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Suffolk County Department of Health Services, Administration Board Room
3500 Sunrise Highway, Suite 124, Great River, NY
Tuesday, January 21, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Riverhead Library, Open Room
330 Court Street in Riverhead. Enter on Osborne Ave.
Flu shots are also available at local pharmacies, pediatricians’ and healthcare providers’ offices as well at Suffolk County affiliated health centers, which are located throughout Suffolk County and provide coordinated medical, dental and behavioral health care services to all residents regardless of their insurance status or ability to pay for services.
To find out where you can get a flu vaccine near you visit: Flu Vaccine Finder.
Persons who are having difficulty finding flu shots or community groups serving those who are in need of flu shots are advised to contact the Suffolk County Department of Health Services’ Bureau of Communicable Diseases at 631-854-0333.