Where to Get a Flu Shot in NJ

While we are currently experiencing a flu epidemic in New Jersey, there is still time to get the flu vaccine at a location near you. Most major pharmacies in New Jersey are offering flu shots to help prevent the influenza virus. People are also encouraged to contact their physician's office for more information regarding receiving the flu vaccine. Using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's flu vaccine locator, find out where to get a flu vaccine at a place near you in New Jersey.

According to the map, some of the major participating pharmacies include:

• A & P
• CVS
• Kmart
• Pathmark
• Rite Aid
• Stop N' Shop
• Target
• Walgreens
• Walmart

With the recent influenza outbreak in this area, an upcoming shortage of flu vaccines is a possibility. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the "flu vaccine may be harder to find now than it was earlier in the season. You may need to contact more than one provider (pharmacy, health department, or doctor) to find available vaccine."

GET THE FACTS ABOUT THE FLU:

THE VACCINE

This season's vaccine is well matched to the circulating strains, and there's still some available. It is 62 percent effective, according to government study results released Friday, which is pretty good for a flu vaccine. Health officials are urging people to get vaccinated; it's recommended for everyone 6 months or older.

THE DEFENSE

Besides getting a flu shot, wash hands with soap and warm water, and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Keep away from sick people.

THE TREATMENT

Most people will get a mild case and can help themselves and protect others by staying home and resting. But people with severe symptoms should see a doctor. They may be given antiviral drugs or other medications to ease symptoms.

COLD OR FLU?

Influenza is not the only bug making people sick. The cold virus and a nasty stomach virus are also going around. It can sometimes be hard to tell the difference, but cold symptoms include stuffy or runny nose, sore throat and sneezing. Flu usually involves fever, along with chills, headache and moderate-to-severe body aches and tiredness. Symptoms can come on rapidly, within three to six hours.

(Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved)