New City, NY — As flu season approaches and public health officials remain vigilant about vaccine-preventable diseases, the Rockland County Department of Health (RCDOH) has announced a series of community clinics offering free flu and MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccines to residents.
The seasonal flu vaccine will be available for individuals aged 6 months and older, while the MMR vaccine will be offered to non-immune individuals. Health officials emphasize that the vaccinations are a crucial tool in preventing the spread of potentially serious illnesses, particularly among vulnerable populations.
Who Can Get Vaccinated?
- Flu Vaccine: Available for everyone 6 months and older.
- Free for uninsured or underinsured individuals.
- Those with Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance must bring their insurance cards.
- MMR Vaccine: Free for those who are not immune.
- Individuals are considered immune if they:
- Had measles confirmed by a healthcare provider,
- Have a lab test confirming immunity,
- Were born before 1957, or
- Received two doses of the MMR vaccine.
- Individuals are considered immune if they:
Upcoming Vaccination Clinics
1. First Baptist Church Community Outreach Day
📍 6 Hoyt Street, Spring Valley, NY 10977
🗓 Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025 | 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- No pre-registration needed; on-site registration only.
2. Robert Yeager Health Center (Drive-Thru Clinic)
📍 50 Sanatorium Road, Pomona, NY 10970 – Building F Parking Lot
🗓 Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025 | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Pre-registration preferred, but walk-ins welcome.
- Register here: rcklnd.us/flu or call 845-364-2534.
- Participants will remain in their vehicles.
3. Senator Bill Weber’s Senior Fair
📍 Rockland Community College Fieldhouse, 145 College Road, Suffern, NY 10901
🗓 Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- No pre-registration needed; on-site registration available.
What You Should Know About the Flu Vaccine
The vaccine being administered is preservative-free, including no thimerosal, and provides protection against three flu virus strains expected to be most common this season: two influenza A strains and one influenza B strain. A high-dose version will be available for residents 65 and older, offering increased protection for seniors who are at higher risk for complications.
“Even healthy people can become seriously ill from the flu and unknowingly spread it to others,” health officials noted. “Getting vaccinated early is the best way to protect yourself, your family, and the community.”
The CDC recommends getting vaccinated by the end of October to ensure protection before the virus begins circulating widely.
Staying Healthy Beyond Vaccines
In addition to getting vaccinated, the Health Department encourages residents to:
- Avoid close contact with sick individuals
- Stay home when feeling ill
- Cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing
- Wash hands frequently
- Avoid touching your face, especially eyes, nose, and mouth
For more information, including additional flu facts and resources, visit rcklnd.us/flu or call 845-364-2534.