Sherrill Gets Flu Shot, Urges New Jersey Residents to Prepare for Respiratory Virus Season
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By Adam Rizvi | Editor, The India Observer (TIO): BAYONNE, NJ — Governor Mikie Sherrill and New Jersey Health Commissioner Dr. Raynard Washington are urging residents to prepare for the fall and winter respiratory virus season after receiving their 2026–2027 flu vaccinations at a community clinic in Bayonne.
The two officials joined residents on Tuesday, October 13, at the Hudson Regional Health Commission’s Vaccines for Children clinic at the Bayonne Public Library. The event was organized by the Hudson Regional Health Commission and Hackensack Meridian Health.
According to the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH), seasonal influenza activity in the state remains low but is higher than at the same time last year.
Flu, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) typically circulate more widely during the colder months. State health officials are encouraging residents to review their vaccination needs and take steps to protect themselves and their families.
“Staying up to date on your vaccinations is one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent yourself and your loved ones from getting seriously sick,” Governor Sherrill said, urging New Jersey residents to make a plan to receive their seasonal vaccines.
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Commissioner Washington also encouraged residents who have not received their flu shots to contact their health care providers, visit a local pharmacy or find a community vaccination clinic.
The vaccination event follows several state actions intended to improve access to vaccines during the 2026–2027 respiratory virus season.
On September 29, the New Jersey Department of Health issued Executive Directive No. 26-002, recommending COVID-19 vaccination for people six months of age and older for the current respiratory virus season.
The department also issued a standing order allowing pharmacy professionals to administer COVID-19 vaccines to individuals aged three and older without a prescription.
Under Executive Directive No. 26-003, New Jersey adopted the American Academy of Pediatrics’ 2026 child and adolescent immunization schedule and the American Academy of Family Physicians’ 2026 adult immunization schedule.
The state has also launched its “Stay Well, Learn Well” campaign, which brings vaccinations, physical examinations and health screenings into communities through partnerships with hospitals, local health departments and federally qualified health centers.
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Governor Sherrill’s final fiscal year 2027 budget includes $3 million for the state’s vaccination program, according to the administration.
The New Jersey Department of Health recommends an annual flu vaccine for everyone six months of age and older. It also provides age- and risk-based guidance for COVID-19 and RSV vaccination.
Flu: Annual vaccination is recommended for everyone six months and older. Adults aged 65 and older should receive a high-dose flu vaccine when possible. Pregnant and immunocompromised individuals should not receive the nasal spray version of the flu vaccine.
COVID-19: The state recommends updated vaccination for adults aged 19–64, children aged six through 23 months, certain older children, pregnant people, immunocompromised individuals and health care personnel. Recommendations for children aged two through 18 depend on risk factors or individual circumstances. Adults aged 65 and older are advised to receive an updated vaccine and a second dose six months later.
RSV: Protection is recommended for eligible infants and young children, certain pregnant individuals, adults aged 75 and older, and adults aged 50–74 who face an increased risk of severe illness. Certain immunocompromised adults are also included in the state’s recommendations.
Eligibility and recommendations can vary according to age, medical circumstances and vaccination history. Residents should consult their health care providers to determine which vaccines are appropriate for them.
According to NJDOH, the updated flu and COVID-19 vaccines can be administered during the same visit. Eligible individuals may also receive RSV protection at that time.
Residents can seek vaccinations through health care providers, pharmacies, community health clinics and local health departments.
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Most recommended vaccines are covered by health insurance, although residents should confirm their individual coverage and vaccine availability with their provider.
Families who need financial assistance may qualify for the federal Vaccines for Children program, which provides vaccines at no cost to eligible children through age 18 who meet the program’s requirements.
Uninsured adults, as well as some adults whose insurance does not cover particular vaccines, may qualify for free or low-cost vaccination through the federal 317-funded program. They can contact their local health department or a federally qualified health center to ask about eligibility.
The health department also recommends regular handwashing, covering coughs and staying home when sick to help limit the spread of respiratory viruses.
Residents can find further information about vaccination recommendations, eligibility and access through the New Jersey Department of Health’s vaccine resources.
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Source: New Jersey Governor’s Office and New Jersey Department of Health.
