With fall in full swing and winter fast approaching, what better time to ask your doctor or vaccine provider about updating your yearly flu shot? The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends anyone older than six months of age should receive their annual flu shot to help their body prepare for the upcoming flu season.
The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) and the CDC changed COVID-19 booster shot guidelines to reflect new shots available to patients. The new booster shots from Pfizer and Moderna cover the original strain of COVID-19 as well as the omicron strain. They are called bivalent vaccines. All fully vaccinated persons should receive a booster vaccination to stay up to date. People are fully vaccinated when they receive two doses of either Pfizer or Moderna or a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.
Once fully vaccinated, patients must wait two months to receive a new booster shot. Everyone over 5 years of age is eligible for a booster. After you have received a booster shot, you are up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations. Immunocompromised patients should talk to their doctor or vaccine provider to learn more about additional boosters and what staying up to date means to them.
Keep you and your family safe this season, and stay up to date on your flu and COVID-19 vaccines. Don’t let up on the basic infection prevention habits of good hand washing, covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and staying home if you’re feeling sick. Talk to your doctor or vaccine provider about getting your flu shot today! While talking to them, ask if you are due for your next COVID-19 booster shot. They can safely be given at the same time.
Call the Clarke County Clinic to schedule your flu shot and COVID-19 booster at 641-342-2128. Together, we can keep our community happy and healthy all year round!
