It is that time of year again, when the Flu and COVID vaccinations may be needed for those we serve. Get the latest guidance from the CDC to protect yourself and those you serve this season.

Flu Prevention

According to the CDC, the best way to reduce your risk from seasonal flu and its potentially serious complications is to get vaccinated each year. The CDC also provides the following guidance on how to reduce the risk of catching the flu for you and those you serve:

• Get the seasonal vaccine. The CDC explained that this season’s vaccines will be designed to protect against the four flu viruses that research indicates will be most common. Find a vaccine location near you
• Cover your mouth. Cover all coughs and sneezes with a tissue and then dispose of the tissue.
• Reduce the spread. Take everyday preventive actions to help reduce the spread of flu, like avoiding close contact with people who are sick and limiting contact with others if you are sick.
• Wash your hands. Wash your hands regularly and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. This is how germs spread the most frequently.
• Disinfect. Clean and disinfect frequently used surfaces or objects that may be contaminated with viruses that cause flu.

Remember:  If you do catch the flu, the CDC recommends that people stay home for at least 24 hours after their fever is gone (except to get medical care or other necessities). Fever should be gone without the need to use a fever-reducing medicine.

Learn more about the Flu and Flu prevention on the CDC’s website

COVID cases are on the rise

Unfortunately, cases of COVID-19 are also on the rise again. On September 12, 2023, a new vaccine was recommended by the CDC for anyone over the age of 6 months to protect against serious illness. Like earlier versions of the vaccine, the updated COVID-19 vaccine is meant to protect people from against severe illness, hospitalization, or even death. The CDC also notes that COVID-19 vaccines also help reduce the chances Long COVID. This vaccine is expected to provide better protection against variants that are currently making people sick per the CDC. Find a COVID-19 vaccination site near you

COVID Prevention

COVID-19 preventative measures are the same as the flu preventative measures (please see above) along with wearing a mask to reduce transmission. Learn more about the new COVID vaccine and preventative measures on the CDC’s website