Influenza makes an early arrival in NJ -- Get your flu vaccine early this year

This year, the flu has arrived early and is hitting hard. CDC says that NJ is in a VERY HIGH flu activity category and the NJ Department of Health says that the entire state in in a MODERATE flu activity category. But these numbers will only get worse as we progress through the fall and into winter. Along with a surge in RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) and COVID persisting and possibly increasing, it is more important than ever to receive the flu vaccine this year. The risk is even greater if you have any underlying medical conditions. Please call our office to schedule a flu shot or if you have any questions. References: NJ DOH, CDC.

COVID-19 Home Test Recall

Digital diagnostics company Ellume announced it is voluntarily recalling specific lots of the Ellume COVID-19 Home Test, the company’s rapid, at-home COVID-19 antigen test, because of an increased chance that tests from the affected lot numbers may give a false positive result. If you purchased one of Ellume's test kits, read their recall announcement for affected lot numbers and instructions on how to proceed. Globally, ore than 2 million test kits are affected by this recall.

COVID Vaccine Information

For the latest information on COVID vaccines, visit our new COVID Vaccine Information Page. Here we give you the full low-down on the vaccines, why you should get one, myths & truths, and boosters/third doses. There are resources for more information and to track the progress of COVID and the vaccines. We will update this page as new information becomes available. Last Updated: 07/19/2022 And Yes, you can receive a flu vaccine and a COVID vaccine together (separate arms) or in close temporal proximity.

Changing of the Guard - Dr. Lubin to Retire at the end of October

With the arrival of Dr. Yadav, Dr. Lubin has announced his retirement, effective October 31. Dr. Lubin joined Hightstown Medical Associates in 1986. He was the driving force behind HMA’s first computer system and created and still maintains the Hightstown Medical Associates web site. After 35 years of practice, and the arrival of his first grandchild, he has decided to start the next chapter of his life. We at HMA and Penn Medicine/Princeton Health wish him well on this journey. If you would like to do the same, you can read his retirement statement and post your well wishes on his farewell page. You can send him a message and, if you would like, upload a photo to help him remember you.

NJ Announces new Docket App to access your COVID Vaccine Status

Docket is a new app from the NJ Department of Health that makes it easier for you and your family to securely access your COVID-19 vaccination record. If you don't have your vaccination card with you or you have lost it, you can easily access your record through the app to provide proof of COVID-19 immunizations as needed. Individuals with an email or phone number on file with the New Jersey Immunization Information System can access and download their COVID-19 vaccination record using the app. The app can also provide access to family members' records through a shared account. For more information, and to download the app, go to the Docket Page on the Department of Health website. And while you are at it, why not also download the COVID Alert NJ app, which will notify you if you have been in close proximity to someone who has tested positive?

Phillips Respironics CPAP Recall

Phillips Respironics has initiated a recall of many of their CPAP machines. If your machine is affected, it is recommended that you discontinue use of your machine. It is unclear if machines will be refurbished or replaced by the manufacturer. If your current device is over 5 years old, your insurance may cover cost of replacement. We recommend contacting your durable medical equipment provider (the company that provided you with your Respironics machine) and see if you are eligible for a new machine, and if not, whether your device will be replaced or repaired. Use the Respironics website to register your device - this will confirm that you have an affected device and begin the process of replacement by the manufacturer. There is also a contact number at Respironics if you would prefer to speak to someone there: 1-877-907-7508 Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm Eastern Time (U.S.). For additional information, visit this website: https://www.usa.philips.com/healthcare/e/sleep/communications/src-update.