NJ Health Department Honchos Leading by Example!
New Jersey Department of Health leaders received their COVID-19 and flu vaccines, encouraging people to get vaccinated for the fall and winter respiratory virus season.
TRENTON –
New Jersey Department of Health Acting Commissioner Jeff Brown and Deputy Commissioner of Public Health Dr. Novneet Sahu, MPA, visited the Henry J. Austin Health Center in Trenton today to receive their 2025-2026 COVID-19 and influenza vaccinations. During the visit, the Acting Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner encouraged New Jersey residents to schedule their vaccination appointments as we approach respiratory virus season.
During the fall and when people spend more time indoors during the colder months, New Jersey typically sees an increase in respiratory viruses, including COVID-19, influenza (flu), and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
“The best way for New Jersey residents to stay protected during cold and flu season is to get vaccinated, if eligible, against respiratory illnesses like the flu, COVID-19, and RSV. These vaccines, historically proven to reduce illness, are widely available across the state,” said Acting Commissioner Brown . “Community health centers, like the Henry J. Austin Health Center, provide crucial vaccines regardless of a patient’s ability to pay. They also offer services and serve as vital hubs for vaccine equity in underserved communities. Visit your community health center today, just like I did, and protect yourself and your loved ones.”
“When we get our vaccines, we’re helping our bodies build defenses against the most prominent strains of these viruses circulating in our communities,” said Deputy Commissioner Dr. Sahu . “The flu and COVID-19 vaccines have proven time and again to be effective in reducing symptom severity and hospitalization, leading to a faster recovery. Protecting yourself and your family is as easy as making an appointment to get vaccinated.”
“At the Henry J. Austin Health Center, we fully support the New Jersey Department of Health’s commitment to clear, evidence-based guidance on vaccines. Vaccines remain one of the most effective tools we have to prevent serious illness and protect our community,” said Charles L. Davis, II, Executive Director of the Henry J. Austin Health Center . “As we approach flu season, we encourage everyone to stay up-to-date on all recommended vaccinations, including influenza and COVID-19. Our team is ready to provide these vaccinations and answer any questions so families can feel confident in the care they receive.”
Protect yourself from the flu, COVID-19, and RSV
The New Jersey Department of Health encourages everyone six months and older to get vaccinated with the COVID-19 vaccine by 2025-2026 to receive the most up-to-date protection against the virus and its variants. Leading medical and public health associations, including the American Academy of Family Physicians and the American Academy of Pediatrics, also recommend an annual influenza vaccine for people six months and older, and the RSV vaccine for high-risk infants and children, pregnant people, and older adults based on eligibility.
Adults 65 years and older, pregnant people, or those with chronic conditions such as asthma and heart disease are at higher risk for serious complications from respiratory viruses. Vaccines should also be a priority for those living with or caring for people at higher risk, including those with children in their homes who are too young to be vaccinated and healthcare professionals. Children born to mothers who did not receive the RSV vaccine during pregnancy can be protected by receiving a monoclonal antibody (nirsevimab) to protect them against RSV.
Vaccination is available at healthcare providers’ offices, pharmacies, federally qualified health centers , and local health departments . Vaccination locations can also be found by visiting the New Jersey Department of Health website.
Many vaccines are covered by health insurers at little or no cost to individuals. Additionally, the NJDOH Department of Justice’s Vaccine Preventable Diseases Program (VPDP) helps reduce financial barriers to childhood vaccines through the Vaccines for Children program, which offers free or low-cost vaccines to eligible children through enrolled healthcare providers. The VPDP also administers the 317-funded adult program, which provides vaccines to uninsured and underinsured adults.
The Department of Health also recommends the following measures to improve preparedness against respiratory viruses:
• Stay up-to-date on vaccinations : Vaccines are effective tools for preventing serious illness and hospitalizations, especially against COVID-19 and the flu. RSV vaccines are also available for high-risk populations.
• Stay informed: Monitor local health updates and follow health authorities’ guidelines regarding respiratory virus trends and recommendations.
• Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, use hand sanitizer, and cover your coughs and sneezes to prevent the spread of germs.
• Stay home when you’re sick: Avoid spreading illness to others by staying home, especially if you’re experiencing symptoms like cough, fever, or fatigue.
• Prepare: Stock up on essential supplies at home, including medications, tissues, cleaning supplies, and home testing kits for COVID-19 and the flu.
• Make a health plan: Discuss and establish a plan for when a family member is sick, including contact information for medical professionals and how to provide care at home.
Since respiratory virus activity often increases during the colder months, the Department encourages everyone to remain vigilant and prioritize health by taking these proactive steps to safeguard our communities.
Guarantee access
The Murphy Administration has taken several steps to ensure that New Jerseyans can continue to access lifesaving vaccines and continue to provide scientifically rigorous vaccine recommendations to residents.
Earlier this month, the New Jersey Department of Justice issued an Executive Directive allowing anyone six months of age and older to receive a COVID-19 vaccine for the 2025-2026 respiratory illness season. The Department also issued a Standing Order authorizing pharmacists in New Jersey to administer COVID-19 vaccines without a prescription. These combined actions remove barriers to ensuring that everyone who wants to receive a COVID-19 vaccine can do so.
The New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance also issued guidance encouraging health insurance companies to continue covering the cost of COVID-19 vaccinations.
In late August 2025, NJDOH convened an Interagency Vaccine Task Force to minimize disruptions to vaccine availability and coverage. The task force brings together leaders from the Departments of Human Services, Children and Families, Education, Banking and Insurance, the Division of Consumer Affairs, Law and Public Safety, and the Treasury to enhance coordination.
New Jersey Acting Health Commissioner Jeff Brown discusses the importance of staying up-to-date on vaccinations and preparing for respiratory virus season after receiving his flu and COVID-19 vaccinations this morning at the Henry J. Austin Health Center.
Deputy Commissioner of Public Health Services Dr. Novneet Sahu describes how vaccines work during his visit to the Henry J. Austin Health Center this morning after receiving his flu and COVID-19 vaccinations.
Charles L. Davis, II, Executive Director of the Henry J. Austin Health Center, welcomes Acting Commissioner Brown and Deputy Commissioner Dr. Sahu.
About the Henry J. Austin Health Center
Henry J. Austin Health Center is a nonprofit Federally Qualified Health Center dedicated to providing comprehensive, high-quality healthcare services to underserved populations in Mercer County, New Jersey. With a focus on patient-centered care and community engagement, Henry J. Austin Health Center strives to improve health outcomes and promote well-being for all.
About the New Jersey Department of Health
The New Jersey Department of Health is a nationally accredited health department working to ensure all New Jerseyans live long, healthy lives and reach their full potential. With more than 5,500 employees, the Department works to protect public health, promote healthy communities, and continue to improve the quality of health care in New Jersey.
