Michael Sanford Takes on New Role as Detective in Morris County
PARSIPPANY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood, and Chief of Detectives Robert McNally confirmed that a member of the support staff team, Michael Sanford, has been hired as a Detective for the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office.
A swearing-in ceremony was held on Monday, October 7.
Detective Sanford will be assigned to the Professional Standards, Insurance Fraud, and Financial Crimes Units within the Specialized Crimes Division. He will attend the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy in the winter.
Detective Sanford initially joined the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office in April 2023 as a support staff member, assisting detectives in the Financial Crimes and Professional Standards Units with investigations, preparing case files, drafting correspondence for municipal police departments, and ensuring accurate case dispositions.
He previously worked as a superintendent helper, Sarbanes-Oxley audit intern, tax preparer, and shift supervisor. Detective Sanford has also served as captain of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Fire District #6 since 2016.
Detective Sanford graduated from Montclair State University with a Bachelor of Sciences degree in Accounting and from the County College of Morris with an Associate’s Degree in Business Administration.
Prosecutor Carroll said, “I am proud to promote a hard-working member of our team to an investigative role.”
DOVER – Dover Public Schools will introduce its new superintendent at a special event on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. The announcement will occur at Dover High School, marking a significant moment in the district’s leadership transition.
The event is open to the public, and community members are encouraged to attend and be part of this important chapter for the district. The new superintendent will address attendees and share their vision for the future of Dover Public Schools, focusing on enhancing educational opportunities and strengthening the district’s commitment to student success.
“We invite everyone to join us as we welcome our new superintendent,” said a Dover High School representative. “This is a key moment for our community as we look toward a bright future for our schools.”
The Board of Education has emphasized the importance of selecting a superintendent with a strong background in educational leadership and a commitment to fostering academic excellence and community involvement. This appointment follows a thorough search and interview process to find the right individual to lead the district.
Morris County Columbus Day Dinner Celebrates Tradition, Community, and Achievement
EAST HANOVER – On Friday, October 11, the 18th Annual Morris County Columbus Day Parade Dinner was held at the Hanover Manor, hosted by the East Hanover Italian American Club. The event celebrated Italian heritage, community, and the achievements of outstanding local individuals who have made a significant impact in their respective fields.
This year’s honorees included:
Grand Marshal Livio Cioffi
Entrepreneurs of the Year: James and Tommy Racioppi
Man of the Year: East Hanover Councilman Michael Martorelli
Woman of the Year: Cathy Lagravenis
Lifetime Achievement Award: Matt Tuorto
2024 Parade Princess: Alexa Rose Falcone
The dinner served as a prelude to the Morris County Columbus Day Parade, a cherished tradition that brings the community together to celebrate Italian culture and recognize exceptional contributions.
The Morris County Columbus Day Parade will be held on Sunday, October 13, 2024, in East Hanover, starting at 2:00 p.m. The event is sponsored by the East Hanover Italian American Club and will feature marching bands, social organizations, antique cars, and more. After the parade, there will be a Family Fun Day at Lurker Park, offering activities like a petting zoo, face painting, and live music.
Alexa Rose Falcone, 2024 Parade Princess
Alexa Rose Falcone, 2024Parade Princess
Alexa (Lexi) is a vibrant and curious 6-year-old who attends Frank J. Smith School as a first grader. She loves exploring new things and has a fun-loving personality that makes her a joy to be around. She enjoys ballet, Hip Hop dancing, and gymnastics, and loves spending time with her friends and family, especially her cousins. Her excitement for learning about the world has already begun to shape her as a bright and engaged child.
Lexi and her family are proud of her connection to her heritage. Her grandfather, Richard Falcone, was a dedicated member of the Italian American Club for many years, and Lexi carries forward his legacy with enthusiasm and love for her Italian American roots.
Lexi is excited and honored to be this year’s Columbus Day Parade Princess.
Livio Cioffi, Grand Marshal
Livio Cioffi, Grand Marshal
Livio Cioffi is currently the Police Director in the Borough of Roseland, a role he assumed in October 2023. He began his law enforcement career in 1990 after graduating from the Essex County Police Academy. His service includes roles as an Essex County Police Officer, joining the Irvington Police Department, and retiring as a Police Captain from the Roseland Police Department in 2018.
Cioffi has been recognized for his exceptional service multiple times, including receiving the Mayor’s Award as an Irvington Police Officer in 1994 for going above and beyond the call of duty, and being honored as the law enforcement executive of the year in 2017 by the Essex County Chiefs of Police Association.
After leaving active law enforcement, Livio transitioned to the private sector, where he served as the Director of Security at Columbus Hospital, eventually rising to Vice President. He held that position for six years.
Livio was born in Salerno, Italy, and immigrated to Newark in 1966. He grew up in the North Ward section of Newark with his family. Livio attended St. Francis Xavier Grammar School and later went to Immaculate Conception High School. He is married to Anne Cioffi and has two children, Amanda and Rocco, as well as two stepdaughters, Brianna and Marissa. They currently reside in Brick.
In addition to his professional work, Livio is involved in various charities, including serving as the current President of the Columbian Foundation, which focuses on promoting Italian culture and heritage. He is also part of the committee for “Arianna Angels,” a nonprofit organization supporting autism awareness and special needs programs.
Livio Cioffi is one of the organizers of the Polizia Di Stato Columbus Day Parade committee, a tradition established 27 years ago, which now includes participation in both the New York City and East Hanover Columbus Day parades.
Lifetime Achievement Award: Matt Tuorto
Lifetime Achievement Award: Matt Tuorto
Matt Tuorto is a dedicated educational leader currently in his fifth year as an administrator in East Hanover, where he proudly serves as the principal of Frank J. Smith School. Matt finds immense joy in his role, especially in witnessing the smiles on students’ faces each day. His students’ enthusiasm for education is a source of great personal satisfaction, reinforcing their commitment to fostering a positive and engaging educational environment. Throughout his time in East Hanover, Matt has built many positive relationships with stakeholders throughout the community.
Matt holds a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Montclair State University and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Liberty University. This advanced degree underscores his dedication to deepening his expertise and driving impactful change within the education sector.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Matt has a notable background in athletics. He played four years of college tennis at Moravian University, where he holds the record for the most doubles wins in the school’s history and earned the Senior Scholar-Athlete Award. This achievement highlights his commitment to excellence both on and off the court.
On a personal note, Matt married his wife, Lindsay, this past New Year’s Eve. They place a high value on family and enjoy a close-knit life with two parents, one sister, and a large extended family, reflecting the importance of support and togetherness in his life.
Matt is honored and humbled to have earned the Lifetime Achievement Award, a testament to his dedication and impact in his field. He is deeply grateful for the support from East Hanover and the opportunities it has provided, which have been instrumental in his professional and personal growth. Matt values his Italian-American background and understands the importance of support from both his family and the community.
Throughout his career, Matt has demonstrated a passion for supporting both students and educators, striving to create an environment where academic success and personal growth go hand in hand. His journey reflects a commitment to lifelong learning, a vision for shaping the future of education, and a profound appreciation for family and community.
Man of the Year: Michael Martorelli
Man of the Year: Michael Martorelli
Michael Martorelli, a distinguished resident of East Hanover, has been recognized as the honoree for Italian American Man of the Year. This recognition highlights his unwavering commitment to his community and his dedication to preserving Italian American heritage. A dedicated public servant, devoted family man, and passionate community advocate, Michael has made a lasting impact on East Hanover and beyond.
Born in Montclair and raised in West Orange, Michael was profoundly influenced by his parents’ dedication to their Italian roots. His father, a skilled contractor, and his mother, a human resource manager, instilled in him the values of hard work, family, and service. These values have guided Michael throughout his life and career.
For the past 22 years, Michael has worked as an HVAC technician at Seton Hall University. In addition to this role, he serves as shop steward with Local 68 Union, where he has also been a vital member of the Local 68 Union Executive Board of Trustees. His professional achievements are matched by his extensive volunteer work in East Hanover, where he has lived for over two decades. Michael’s community service began with his role as chairman of East Hanover’s Environmental Committee, where he led significant initiatives such as Project Porchlight and the East Hanover Beautification Program. His leadership contributed to East Hanover being recognized as a top nonprofit organization in the country for the Change the World campaign.
Michael’s commitment to public safety is evident through his service on the Swift Water Rescue Team and the Office of Emergency Management, and East Hanover Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), which has been recognized as one of the largest and best-trained programs in NJ. He also contributes to the Special Improvement District (SID) Board, where he has been instrumental in the Eagle Rock & Ridgedale Avenue streetscape and sidewalk improvement project. Michael is a member of the Knights of Columbus and has also served on the East Hanover Emergency Medical Services’ Board of Trustees. His exceptional contributions have earned him several accolades, including the NJ Clean Energy Volunteer of the Month award, monetary rewards for energy conservation, and an Outstanding Service Award for a life rescue. In addition to his community work, Michael has served on the East Hanover Township Council for the past 12 years and is currently serving his 5th term as councilman. His leadership has been instrumental in shaping the town’s development and ensuring its future prosperity.
Outside of his professional and community achievements, Michael is a dedicated family man. He and his wife, Tracy, have been married for 30 years and are the proud parents of three beautiful daughters—Amanda, Alexis, and Ashley—and grandparents to Luciana. His family remains his greatest source of pride and joy.
As honoree for Italian American Man of the Year, Michael Martorelli embodies the spirit of dedication, community engagement, and cultural pride. His lifelong commitment to serving others and preserving his heritage reflects a deep and enduring impact on his community and beyond.
Woman of the Year: Cathy Lagravenis
Woman of the Year: Cathy Lagravenis
The East Hanover Italian American Club has announced Cathy Lagravenis, owner of Cathy D’s Hair Design, as the recipient of the East Hanover Italian-American Woman of the Year award for 2024. A lifelong resident of Florham Park and East Hanover, Cathy has demonstrated a profound commitment to her craft and to her community.
Born in 1977 and raised in Florham Park, Cathy graduated from Hanover Park Regional High School in 1995. She pursued her passion for hairdressing by attending the Artistic Academy, where she honed her skills and expertise. At just 19 years old, she took a bold step by opening Cathy D’s Hair Design in Florham Park. Over the past 28 years, Cathy has successfully built a business that has become a vital part of the local community.
Cathy has earned great respect within the hairdressing industry, known for her innovative approach and her ability to connect deeply with her clients. Her work has earned her numerous accolades and a reputation as a remarkable professional.
The family has always been Cathy’s greatest source of inspiration. She and her husband, Mark, have been married for 23 years and are the proud parents of two children, Michael and Gina, both of whom graduated from schools within the Florham Park and East Hanover districts.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Cathy is dedicated to giving back to the community. A devout Catholic, she has been a parishioner at Holy Family Church in Florham Park for decades, where she has volunteered as a CCD teacher for nearly 30 years, helping guide the next generation in their faith.
Cathy’s community service extends beyond the church. She has organized numerous charity events, including Cut-a-Thons for various causes, such as the No Shave November fundraiser for the Florham Park Police Department and support for Halos for Angels, a nonprofit raising awareness and funds for those in need.
Receiving this prestigious award is both an honor and a reflection of Cathy’s dedication to her profession and community. Her journey, marked by personal and professional excellence, serves as an inspiration to all who know her.
Entrepreneur of the Year: James and Tommy Racioppi
Entrepreneur of the Year: James and Tommy Racioppi
James and Tommy Racioppi are the third and fourth-generation owners of Jimmy Buff’s, a well-known establishment that serves Italian-style hotdogs, sausages, and more. Jimmy Buff’s is celebrating 92 years of business this year.
Back in the late 1920s, James “Bluff” Racioppi came to America from the town of Teora, Italy. When he settled in Newark, he saw how well sausage and pepper sandwiches did at Italian feasts. Inspired by this, he decided to serve them at the card games he held in the basement of his home on 14th Avenue and 9th Street. His wife, Mary Racioppi, who was in charge of preparing the food, had the brilliant idea of adding potatoes on top and serving the sandwich with a hotdog, thus inventing the Italian Hotdog. Word of the delicious sandwich spread, and people were no longer interested in playing cards—they wanted to eat! In 1932, they made the main floor of their home a storefront. Over the years, Jimmy Buff’s has had 16 different locations. Today, Kenilworth, owned by their cousin Michael Loikith, and West Orange, are Jimmy Buff’s two current locations.
James Racioppi retired in 2012, having owned and operated Jimmy Buff’s for 40 years. He took over from his father, Thomas Racioppi, in 1979 after graduating from Fairleigh Dickinson University. James kept the West Orange business going and expanded to locations in Caldwell, North Arlington, and East Hanover. He has received multiple awards and recognitions while operating Jimmy Buff’s and believes in giving back to his community. Over the years, James has donated time, money, and food and has held numerous benefit dinners to raise money for members of his community. Now retired, James enjoys spending time with his wife Lauren and their children, Connie, Armand, Tommy, Jenna, Renee, and Garrett, as well as his grandchildren Isabella, Sophia, James, and Julianna.
Tommy Racioppi is the current owner of Jimmy Buff’s in West Orange. He, too, graduated from Fairleigh Dickinson University and took over from James in 2012, after opening a location in Randolph. In 2020, Tommy started doing off-premise catering, which he and his wife Jenna still offer today. Tommy learned the importance of giving back to the community from his father, as he donated sandwiches to local hospitals, firehouses, and police departments during COVID and has held fundraisers donating his time and food to raise money for people in his community. Tommy enjoys bringing his son James to work with him whenever he can, and hopes that his daughter Julianna will also join the family business when she gets older.
The East Hanover Italian American Club is celebrating its 42nd anniversary, reflecting on decades of dedication to both the betterment of the community and the promotion of the area’s rich Italian heritage.
Over the past 40 years, the club’s mission has expanded considerably. Among its philanthropic endeavors is a scholarship program that began at Hanover Park High School and extended to Whippany Park High School eight years ago. These scholarships are funded through the club’s annual carnival, held every May at Lurker Park. In addition to supporting education, the club is committed to assisting those in need and supporting organizations that contribute to the greater good. In 2017, they played a key role in launching a bocce ball program in East Hanover.
This year also marks the 18th anniversary of the club sponsoring the Morris County Columbus Day Parade in partnership with the Township of East Hanover. The club’s mission for the parade is to celebrate and preserve Italian culture. To further support the parade, the club introduced a comedy night seven years ago, and this year, they expanded their efforts by hosting a Trunk or Treat event at Lurker Park on Saturday, October 26.
The club continues to play an essential role in promoting Italian culture while giving back to the community through its various initiatives.
Ready for the game! A cricket ball and bat symbolize the excitement of the sport, as Lewis Morris Park unveils its brand-new cricket fields. Join us for the ribbon-cutting ceremony and celebrate the growing cricket community in Morris County!
MORRIS COUNTY – The community is invited to join local leaders and officials for a special ribbon-cutting ceremony at Lewis Morris County Park on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, at 4:30 p.m., celebrating the opening of two new recreational cricket fields. These fields, designed to accommodate a softball-style version of cricket, will be part of the newly named Russell W. Myers Recreation Area, dedicated in honor of Russ Myers for his contributions to the local parks system.
Key figures expected to attend the dedication include State Senator Joe Pennachio, Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, members of the Morris County Park Commissioners, and Executive Director of the Morris County Park Commission (MCPC) Dave Helmer. Also in attendance will be community members involved in the initiative, including a trustee from the NJ Softball Cricket League, as well as a possible youth cricket group eager to showcase the new facilities.
This event will take place at Lewis Morris County Park, located at 270 Mendham Road, Morristown. Attendees can follow the park entrance off Doe Meadow Road and continue onto Sunrise Lake Road, where parking will be available near the cricket fields. The ceremony is expected to last approximately one hour.
This dedication marks a significant addition to the recreational offerings in Morris County, providing local residents and cricket enthusiasts a new space to enjoy the popular sport.
Matthew O'Leary was sworn in as Tri-Town Kiwanis Club President
BOONTON — The Kiwanis Club of Tri-Town held its annual meeting recently at Hapgood’s in Mountain Lakes. Members from the Town of Boonton, Boonton Township, and Mountain Lakes gathered to celebrate the club’s accomplishments and welcome its new leadership for the coming year.
Matthew O’Leary was installed as president for the first time, marking a significant step in his involvement with the club. O’Leary, Parsippany-based A3 Digital Media co-owner, was sponsored by longtime member Frank Cahill. In his remarks, O’Leary expressed his excitement about taking on this leadership role and his vision for the club’s future. “I’m honored to be given this opportunity to lead such a dedicated group of people,” O’Leary said. “Together, we will build on the club’s legacy of service and bring new initiatives to help those in need.” Lt. Governor Division 7, NJ District Kiwanis International, Nicolas Limanov, installed O’Leary and Santangelo.
Anthony Santangelo, also a co-owner of A3 Digital Media, was elected as secretary. Santangelo’s business and digital expertise will be key as the club looks to enhance its outreach and engage more community members. “I’m excited to take on this role and work alongside Matt and our fellow members to strengthen our community presence,” Santangelo said.
Shery Ilyas was sworn in as a new member of the Tri-Town Kiwanis Club
In addition to the new leadership, the meeting featured the induction of a new member, Shery Ilyas. Ilyas’s inclusion in the club was warmly received, highlighting the club’s commitment to growth and bringing in fresh perspectives to further its mission.
Frank Cahill, a prominent community figure and sponsor of O’Leary, attended the meeting and praised both O’Leary and Santangelo for their dedication to the Kiwanis mission. Cahill’s support emphasized the strong mentorship and collaboration within the club, which has been a driving force behind its success.
Anthony Santangelo and Matthew O’Leary
Also present was Mary Venzai, advisor to the Mountain Lakes High School Key Club, along with several Key Club members. Venzai spoke about the strong partnership between the Key Club and the Tri-Town Kiwanis, particularly in fostering youth engagement in community service. Lexi Kuchavik, a Key Club member, reflected on the impact of Kiwanis on young leaders: “Kiwanis has taught us the value of giving back,” Kuchavik said. “Working with the Tri-Town Club motivates us to make a difference, and we’re eager to continue partnering on projects that benefit the community.”
The former Governor of the Kiwanis New Jersey District, Howard Gordon, also attended, adding a sense of history and continuity to the event. His presence underscored the significance of the Tri-Town Club’s contributions to the broader Kiwanis network.
As the meeting wrapped up, O’Leary and Santangelo expressed their enthusiasm for the club’s future. With fresh leadership and a commitment to service, the Kiwanis Club of Tri-Town is poised to continue making a meaningful impact in Parsippany, Boonton, Mountain Lakes, and beyond.
The next meeting will be held at Hapgoods, 45 Midvale Avenue, Mountain Lakes, on Tuesday, October 15 at 6:30 p.m. where another new member sponsored by O’Leary will be inducted into the group. If you are interested in joining, join us on Tuesday, or email matt@a3digitals.com.
For more information click here to visit their website.
MORRIS COUNTY – The Lakeland Hills Family YMCA is hosting the grand opening of its new art gallery, designed to foster community relationships by creating a space for cultural exchange, dialogue, and collaboration among diverse members of the community.
The public is invited to an evening of art, culture, and community as Lakeland Hills YMCA unveils its inaugural exhibition featuring works from the design students of the Morris County Vocational School District on Wednesday, October 16, at 6:00 p.m. The YMCA is located at 100 Fanny Road in Mountain Lakes, at the intersection of Mountain Lakes, Parsippany, and Boonton. RSVPs are welcome by emailing Kelly Horvath at kellyh@lhymca.com or calling 973-507-7016.
This is an opportunity to meet the young design artists of Morris County Vocational-Technical High School located in Denville. In June, many of these artists painted a mural on an outdoor storage container used by the Y’s Summer Camp, transforming it into a colorful and eye-catching display.
Alejandro Martinez, Lakeland Hills’ President and CEO, stated, “If you are wondering about the purpose of an art gallery in a nonprofit organization and health and wellness facility, I’m happy to explain. It provides a space for community members to engage with visual arts, enriches the cultural landscape, and fosters a greater art appreciation. This will lead to increased community involvement and support for our mission.”
Martinez continued, “Our art gallery will host educational programs, workshops, and lectures, enhancing the educational offerings for our entire community. We will support local artists, organizations, and other nonprofits. These programs will cater to all age groups and provide learning opportunities in art history, appreciation, and creation. The only limit is one’s imagination!”
Lakeland Hills YMCA will rotate its art exhibitions quarterly and ask the community to nominate future works. Upcoming installations include area schools, senior art, art councils, organizations, art therapy students, and more. The gallery is not limited to specific types or methods.
Just as the artists and their families are invited to the grand opening on Wednesday, October 16, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m., so is the public. Refreshments will be served.
Rosemary Linder Day, the YMCA’s Vice President of Marketing and Membership, remarked, “We are creating a welcoming environment and a gathering place for the community. It demonstrates a commitment to cultural and artistic values. Art is a powerful medium for raising awareness about social issues, highlighting important causes, and encouraging dialogue and action within the community.”
About Lakeland Hills Family YMCA
Lakeland Hills Family YMCA is dedicated to strengthening the community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Our programs and services are designed to promote overall well-being and support individuals and families in achieving their fullest potential. No one serves the community as powerfully as the Y does every day.
Plato's Closet is located in the Ledgewood Plaza, 1029 Route 46, Ledgewood.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Investigations Robert McNally, and Chief Dean Adone of the Roxbury Township Police Department confirmed the sentencing of Nicholas Zirpoli, 36, of Lincoln Park. Zirpoli is the owner and operator of Plato’s Closet, a clothing retail store in Roxbury Township.
On May 13, 2024, Zirpoli pled guilty to ten counts of third-degree Invasion of Privacy and one count of third-degree Possession of Child Pornography. On October 4, 2024, the Honorable Stephen J. Taylor, P.J.S.C., imposed a sentence of three years of probation with 364 days in the Morris County Correctional Facility. Zirpoli is not to have any contact with the victims or their families and continue to undergo psychotherapy.
During the period of late 2022 to the beginning of 2023, Zirpoli used a device to video record juvenile and adult employees, 11 in total, utilizing the restroom at Plato’s Closet at separate times.
Prosecutor Carroll recognizes the Roxbury Township Police Department and Morris County Prosecutor’s Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit, who worked jointly on this investigation.
HANOVER — The Our Lady of Mercy Health Ministry is hosting the first of a three-part Eldercare Seminar Series on Thursday, October 10th, at 7:00 p.m. at the Parish Center. The seminar, titled “When is Assisted Living or Nursing Care Appropriate for My Loved Ones?” will provide essential guidance on managing the challenges of aging and recognizing when to consider additional care options for loved ones.
Barbara Freda
Kim Klapper of Graceful Aging Services will lead a discussion on strategies for aging with dignity and grace.
Barbara Freda of Genesis Healthcare will focus on identifying signs of dementia and determining the appropriate time to seek further assistance, particularly for individuals living with Alzheimer’s. Both experts will provide valuable information and resources to help seniors and caregivers make informed eldercare decisions.
Kim Klapper
The series will continue with additional sessions on November 14th and January 9th, addressing other important aspects of eldercare. Whether you’re a senior exploring your rights and options or a caregiver seeking advice, these seminars are designed to equip you with the knowledge needed to plan confidently for the future.
RSVP is encouraged. To reserve your spot, email office@ourladyofmercyparish or call Kathy at (973).428-4996.
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain insights from professionals and prepare for future eldercare needs.
Our Lady of Mercy is located at 90 Whippany Road, Whippany.
This meeting is being held in accordance with the Open Public Meetings Act, also known as the Sunshine Law, N.J.S.A. 10:4-6. Notice of the meeting was sent to the Daily Record and Star-Ledger on January 2, 2024, and published in the Record and Ledger on January 5, 2024. It was sent to the Citizen on February 2, 2024, and published in the Citizen on February 7, 2024. Notice was also posted on the Bulletin Board of the Municipal Building.” These notices were sent within 48 hours before this meeting, and there was sufficient time for the publications to publish them. A copy of said notice is on file with the Municipal Clerk.
Mayor James Dodd (December 31, 2027)
Claudia P. Toro Council Member – First Ward (December 31, 2025)
Sandra Wittner Council Member – First Ward (December 31, 2024)
Sergio Rodriguez Council Member – Second Ward (December 31, 2025)
Geovani Estacio Council Member – Second Ward (December 31, 2024)
Michael Scarneo Council Member – Third Ward (December 31, 2025)
Karol Ruiz Council Member – Third Ward (December 31, 2024)
How Flu Vaccines Save Lives Among High-Risk Groups
MORRIS COUNTY — People with chronic conditions, such as HIV, are at higher risk for severe flu-related complications and should get a flu shot annually to help prevent serious illness, hospitalizations, and deaths. This is especially important for those with HIV who are not on antiretroviral therapy (ART), as untreated HIV weakens the immune system, making it harder to fight off infections and certain cancers.
The flu shot offers the best protection against flu each season. People with HIV face an increased risk of not only contracting the flu but also developing other bacterial or viral infections, including pneumonia. With flu activity peaking in winter, the CDC recommends getting vaccinated early in the fall, ideally by the end of October, for maximum protection.
While it’s impossible to eliminate all flu risks, there are effective steps to reduce the chances of illness and flu-related complications:
Get a Flu Shot: It’s never too late to get vaccinated, but early in flu season is best. High-risk groups, including people with HIV, should opt for the injectable flu shot, as the nasal spray is not recommended. Flu shots are widely available at no cost in locations such as doctors’ offices, clinics, pharmacies, and workplaces.
Take Preventative Steps: Simple actions like frequent hand washing, avoiding face-touching, and staying away from sick individuals can help stop the spread of the flu. If you feel unwell, stay home to avoid infecting others.
Consult Your HIV Care Provider if Symptoms Arise: If you think you have the flu or have been exposed to the virus, contact your HIV care provider immediately. Flu antivirals, when started early, can reduce the severity of symptoms and prevent complications. These medications are safe to take with HIV treatments, but always inform your provider about your current HIV medications to avoid potential interactions.
In addition to the flu shot, the CDC advises people with HIV to stay up to date with other vaccines, including COVID-19, Hepatitis A and B, HPV, Meningococcal, Pneumococcal, Tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (Tdap), and Zoster (shingles). Discuss your vaccine needs with your HIV care provider to ensure you’re fully protected.
For more information or questions about HIV and other sexually transmitted infections, contact the New Jersey AIDS/HIV/STD Hotline, available 24/7, for free and confidential help. Healthcare providers can connect you with free sexual health services in New Jersey: 1-800-624-2377 or chat online.
