The Ocean County Health Department is ready to help residents prepare themselves for flu season, the Ocean County Board of Freeholders announced Wednesday.

The county has earmarked $100,000 for its annual flu shot program, Freeholder Director Gerry P. Little said, and expects to provide 10,000 immunizations.

"The numbers are down as a result of (stores such as) CVS and others offering flu shots," Little said, but the county's program remains the largest in New Jersey.

Immunizations against the flu and pneumonia will be available at 44 sites throughout the county, with nearly half of those sites at or near senior communities, according to the schedule on the health department's website, www.ochd.org. The first date is Monday, Sept. 17, in the health department's auditorium.

Flu and pneumonia immunizations are $20 for everyone except those with non-HMO Medicare Part B coverage and are available in three options for those who are not allergic to eggs: a standard shot, the most common given, for those 6 months old or older; an intradermal shot, specifically for those 18-64, and a "high dose" immunization designed for those 65 and older, who are considered among those at the highest risk for severe complications if they get the flu.

For more information or specific dates, visit the county Health Department's website.