New Jersey Department of Health Highlights Preparedness Against COVID-19, Flu, and RSV

Updated Vaccines Available Across New Jersey

Trenton, NJ - (October 22, 2024) - With cold weather and holiday gatherings on the way, the New Jersey Department of Health emphasizes the importance of getting vaccinated against respiratory viruses, including COVID-19, influenza (flu), and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).  

Now is the best time to get vaccinated to help prevent the spread of illness to family and friends. The vaccines are safe, effective, and proven to reduce the length and severity of illness for people who become sick. The newest COVID-19 vaccines are designed to enhance protection against variants and boost immunity. These vaccines continue to play a crucial role in reducing hospitalizations and complications associated with the virus.

"These vaccines are updated to give you the best protection from serious illness, hospitalization, and death," said New Jersey Department of Health Commissioner Dr. Kaitlan Baston. "We recommend that everyone eligible receives the latest vaccines, especially those at higher risk for severe illness." 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended that everyone ages 6 months and older get vaccinated with the new 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccines as the most up-to-date protection against the virus and its variants. The CDC also recommended a yearly flu vaccine for individuals ages six months and older, and RSV vaccination for pregnant people and older adults.

The Department of Health recommends the following measures to enhance preparedness against these respiratory viruses: 

1. Stay Up to Dateon Immunizations: Vaccines are effective tools in preventing severe illness and hospitalization, especially COVID-19 and the flu. RSV vaccines are also available for high-risk populations. For a schedule of immunizations by age, visit the Center for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) at cdc.gov/vaccines/imz-schedules/index.html
2. Stay Informed: Monitor local health updates and follow guidance from health authorities regarding respiratory virus trends and recommendations.  
3. Practice Good Hygiene: Regularly wash hands with soap and water, use hand sanitizer, and cover coughs and sneezes to prevent the spread of germs.  
4. Stay Home When Sick: Avoid spreading illness to others by staying home, especially if you are experiencing symptoms such as cough, fever, or fatigue. 
5. Be Prepared: Stock essential supplies at home, including medications, tissues, cleaning products, and at-home test kits for COVID-19 and flu. Free COVID-19 test kits can be ordered at covidtests.gov. 
6. Make a Health Plan: Discuss and establish a plan for illness with your family, including contact information for medical professionals and how to provide care at home. 

Adults ages 65 years and older, people who are pregnant, or those who have chronic health conditions like asthma and heart disease are at greater risk for serious complications from respiratory viruses. Vaccines should also be a priority for those who live with or care for persons at higher risk, including people who have children in their households who are too young to be vaccinated. Children born to mothers who did not receive the RSV vaccine while pregnant can be protected by getting a monoclonal antibody (nirsevimab) to protect them against RSV.

Vaccination locations can be found at vaccines.gov or by visiting the New Jersey Department of Health website. Vaccination is available at health care provider offices, pharmacies, federally qualified health centers, and local health departments.

Many vaccines are covered by insurers at little to no cost to individuals. In addition, NJDOH's Vaccine Preventable Disease Program (VPDP) helps to reduce economic barriers to childhood vaccines through the Vaccines for Children program, which offers vaccines at no or low cost to eligible children through health care providers enrolled in the program. The VPDP also administers the 317-funded adult program, which provides vaccines to uninsured and underinsured adults.

As respiratory virus activity often increases during colder months, the Department encourages everyone to remain vigilant and prioritize health. By taking these proactive steps, we can work together to safeguard our communities.