New Jersey expands COVID-19 and flu vaccine access through statewide clinic partnerships
NEW JERSEY — The New Jersey Department of Health has launched a coordinated effort with major health systems and community partners to expand access to COVID-19 and flu vaccines ahead of the winter respiratory virus season, state officials announced.
“My Administration remains committed to expanding access to vaccines for those who want to receive them,” Gov. Phil Murphy said. “By leveraging our partnerships with the state’s leading health systems and launching regional COVID-19 and flu vaccine clinics, we are streamlining access to vaccinations and ensuring families have the tools necessary to protect against COVID-19 and the flu.”
The initiative includes pediatric vaccine clinics for children ages six months and older at locations across the state. Health officials say more sites will be added in cooperation with local health departments and federally qualified health centers. Updates will be posted on the Department’s website and social media channels.
“With respiratory virus season upon us and the holidays around the corner, there’s no better time than now to get vaccinated and be protected,” Acting Health Commissioner Jeff Brown said. “By partnering with leading health systems in all regions of the state, we are making sure that families have direct, convenient, and reliable access to vaccines close to home.”
Last week, in partnership with University Hospital, the Department hosted a vaccination clinic for State employees and the public at its Trenton headquarters, administering COVID-19, flu and pneumococcal shots to 105 people. NJDOH also collaborated with the Henry J. Austin Health Center to ensure state-funded pediatric doses of the 2025–2026 COVID-19 vaccines are available at its location in Trenton.
Earlier this fall, the Department issued an Executive Directive permitting anyone six months and older to receive the 2025–2026 COVID-19 vaccine, along with a Standing Order authorizing pharmacists to vaccinate without a prescription.
“Vaccines continue to be our best defense at reducing severe illness or hospitalization from COVID-19 and the flu,” Brown said. He received his own vaccinations in September at Henry J. Austin Health Center.
NJDOH is encouraging everyone six months and older to get the updated COVID-19 vaccine and an annual flu shot. The Department also follows recommendations from leading medical organizations advising RSV vaccination for eligible infants, children, pregnant people and older adults.
State health officials note that adults over 65, people with chronic medical conditions, pregnant individuals, young children and those who live or work with high-risk populations face increased risk from respiratory viruses.
Vaccines are widely available at health care provider offices, pharmacies, federally qualified health centers and local health departments. Many insurers cover vaccines at little or no cost, and the state’s Vaccine Preventable Disease Program offers free or low-cost vaccines to eligible children and uninsured or underinsured adults.
In addition to vaccination, NJDOH recommends several preventative measures: staying informed about local health guidance, practicing good hygiene, staying home when sick, stocking essential supplies and creating a household health plan.
As colder weather approaches, state officials urge residents to remain vigilant and prioritize steps to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses.
