WEST ORANGE, NJ – As flu and respiratory illness cases climb across the state, RWJBarnabas Health announced that it has administered nearly 1,600 free flu vaccines through 37 community clinics this season while urging residents to stay vigilant through the winter months. The clinics, held at health fairs, schools, community centers, senior centers, and houses of worship in Essex, Middlesex, Monmouth, and Morris counties, were part of the health system’s ongoing effort to reduce the spread and severity of influenza and related viruses.
According to RWJBarnabas Health, emergency departments have seen rising cases of influenza-A, RSV, and COVID-19 in recent weeks—an expected trend during the holidays when people gather indoors. “Although flu season comes around every year, it’s important to remember how it can impact our most vulnerable residents and take this opportunity to protect ourselves, our loved ones, and our community by getting vaccinated,” said Dr. Andy Anderson, Chief Medical and Quality Officer at RWJBarnabas Health.
Margie Heller, Senior Vice President for Community Health and Global Strategic Partnerships, noted that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported the 2024–2025 flu season as the first “high-severity” season since 2017–2018. “Flu doesn’t discriminate – even healthy kids and adults can get seriously ill. That’s why prevention is so important,” Heller said.
Health officials emphasize that seniors, young children, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems face the greatest risks from influenza and other respiratory infections. RWJBarnabas Health continues to coordinate community vaccination events and encourages residents to visit rwjbh.org for information on upcoming clinics.