Respiratory illness season is right around the corner. Getting vaccinated against flu and COVID-19 means you won’t miss out on work, school or quality time with family and friends.
Flu and COVID-19 are contagious respiratory illnesses that can come on quickly and severely and in some cases may result in hospitalization or worse, especially for young children, older adults and those with chronic health conditions.
The good news is you can take steps now to protect yourself and your loved ones, and it’s never too early to stay a step ahead.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends getting your flu vaccine between mid-September and the end of October.
This timing gives your body a chance to build protection before flu and COVID-19 cases rise and helps keep you covered through flu season, which usually peaks between December and February, and can often last well into spring.
Safe and effective, the flu vaccine cannot cause the flu, and since flu strains change each year, getting vaccinated annually is the best way to stay protected.
It is possible for vaccinated people to still catch the flu or COVID-19 but vaccination makes symptoms milder and shorter, helping you recover faster and get back to the things you enjoy.
For your convenience, flu and COVID-19 vaccines are available five days a week at all Alameda Health System (AHS) wellness centers including Eastmont, Hayward, Highland and Newark.
You can drop in or call 510-437-8500 to schedule an appointment. Learn more at alamedahealthsystem.org/flu-vaccine.