The Hoboken Health Department in conjunction with Hoboken University Medical Center is offering free H1N1 Swine Flu virus immunizations for certain priority groups.
The vaccine is available on Saturday, Dec. 19 from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. at Assumption Hall at HUMC, Third and Clinton streets.
Officials said the supply is limited and only available to certain priority groups on a first-come-first-serve basis.
The priority groups include household caregivers for children younger than 6 months of age; healthcare and emergency medical services personnel; all people from 6 months to 24 years of age; and persons aged 25 through 64 years of age who have health conditions associated with higher risk of medical complications from influenza.
Officials request that vaccine-seekers do not come to the clinic if they are sick.
Street closure with no parking will be in effect on Third Street between Clinton Street and Willow Avenue from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on the east side of Clinton Street between Third and Fourth streets from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
For more information, visit the city website at www.hobokennj.org or call (201) 420-2375.
Flu Symptoms to Restrict Visitors at Hoboken University Medical Center
Hospital takes precautions to protect health of patients
<!--[endif]-->
HOBOKEN, NJ, Nov. 10, 2009 — Hoboken University Medical Center will tighten its policies on patient visitation beginning Monday as a result of increased flu activity in New Jersey and around the nation.
Following recommendations by the New Jersey Hospital Association, Hoboken UMC will be restricting youngsters ages 18 and under to visiting patients. This age group is most susceptible to H1N1, the flu also referred to as swine flu.
Medical experts say people with H1N1 and other flu can be contagious up to 24 hours before symptoms of the illness appear.
“This is a necessary step we’re taking to protect the health of our patients,” explained Ellen Refowitz, VP Patient Services, CNO, noting that other hospitals in New Jersey are establishing similar restrictions. “We realize this may present a hardship to some families, but the well-being of our patients is our first priority.”
The medical center will make exceptions on a case-by-case basis, especially for family members of patients who have a life-threatening illness.
Children under 18 will be permitted in Hoboken UMC’s outpatient areas, but adults may not leave children unattended in the medical center’s lobbies or waiting areas. Youngsters who have appointments for medical tests or procedures will be permitted in the hospital.
In addition, the medical center’s Junior Volunteer Program will be suspended temporarily.
Hoboken UMC is urging any person who seem to have flu-like to stay home. These symptoms include cough, sore throat, fever, chills, runny nose or body aches.
“Most people are very supportive of these new policies,” said Joan Quigley, VP External Affairs, “They understand that flu of any kind can present a serious risk to someone already suffering from another illness. This is a proactive measure Hoboken University Medical Center and other hospitals around the state and nation are taking to protect our patients and visitors
Remember to do your part to prevent the spread of H1N1 flu
Wash your hands often
Cover your coughs and sneezes
Stay home if you are sick
NOTE: The Department of Health and Senior Services have opened an H1N1 vaccine hotline at: (866) 321-9571. Open Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
