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STATE Of NEW JEIlSI,V

DEPARTMENT OI; HEAI.TII AND SENIOR SERVICES

PO Box 360Trenton, NJ 08625-0360

Heather HowardCommissioner

For Release:January 06, 2010

For Further Information Contact:Office of Communications

(609) 984-7160

DHSS Adds Social Networks to Communicate About H1N1; Follow DHSS on Facebook,Twitter

To reach more individuals through the increased usage of social media networks, the NewJersey Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has created a Facebook page to sharethe latest information regarding H1N1 influenza and vaccine with New Jersey residents.

Individuals who have Facebook accounts can become a fan of the DHSS' H1N1 Resourcepage by searching the title on Facebook.

The Department also created a Twitter page, which is available at WY'LW~lwjtter.Col]ljEL\'LI':-JJ.Individuals who would like to access either Twitter or Facebook can also do so directly from theDepartment's website at www.nj.gov/health.

"More and more people are using social networks to get their news and information," saidHealth and Senior Services Commissioner Heather Howard. "Using Facebook and Twitter toprovide information gives New Jersey residents two more sources for the latest updates on H1N1in New Jersey."

Individuals who follow the Department on Twitter can receive messages on their Twitteraccount or cell phone text messages several times a week with information regarding H1N1influenza, including videos, tips on staying healthy and vaccine-related information.

The Department's Facebook page will offer a wide range of information, including videos,audio clips, posters, flyers, press releases and updates on H1N1 influenza.

There is no cost associated with creating Twitter or Facebook accounts.

Currently, New Jersey is experiencing regional influenza activity.

"Although most cases of H1N1 influenza have been mild both in New Jersey and aroundthe country, it's important to remember that influenza viruses can change very quickly," saidCommissioner Howard. "We all need to remain vigilant, continue to practice good hygiene habitsand get vaccinated. One of the best ways people can help protect themselves is to stay informed."

The Department also has an H1N1 Information Hotline at 1-866-321-9571. Live operatorsare available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., seven days a week to answer questions regarding H1N1

http://nj.gov/cgi-binldhss/njnewsline/view_ article.pl ?id=3 507 7115/2010

NJDHSS News Releases Page 2 of2

influenza in New Jersey. The Department has received more than 31,000 calls sinceopening on October 8, 2009.

For more information on H1N1 influenza, including this week's H1N1 update, visit'fI/ww.nj.gov/health/h1n1.

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Copyright © State of New Jersey, 1996- 2010Department of Health and Senior ServicesP. O. Box 360Trenton, NJ 08625-0360

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http://nj.gov/cgi-bin!dhss/njnewsline/view_ article. pl?id=3 507 7115/2010

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