The Bloomingdale Board of Health has announced the 2009 schedule for flu clinics in Bloomingdale and the surrounding area.

You can also obtain your seasonal flu shot from any of the following locations. Please bring proof of residence.

Please contact the Board of Health at 973-838-0778 Ext 237 for information.

Bloomingdale Borough’s Seasonal Flu Clinic will take place on Thursday, October 8, 2009 from 4-7 pm at Fireman’s Hall.

Seasonal flu causes 36,000 deaths and 200,000 hospitalizations each year in the U.S. The influenza vaccine is one of the most effective ways residents can protect themselves from this virus.

Please remember seasonal flu is different from the novel H1N1 (swine flu) virus. The seasonal influenza vaccine has 3 strain components which will give NO protection against the H1N1 strain.

Your health department is closely monitoring all developments as they relate to the H1N1 virus, and is preparing to protect our community by:

• Providing the H1N1 Vaccine: The CDC is currently expecting the vaccine to be ready in October, and H1N1 flu-shot clinics will be schedule shortly thereafter.
• Monitoring School Absenteeism Rates: This will allow the Health Department to know the prevalence of Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) in your area.
• Keeping You Informed: The Health Department will provide website updates, public service announcements, and press releases as information changes or becomes available.

In the meantime, for the most up-to-date flu information, please visit: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/