As we head into fall and the holiday season, Sacramento County Public Health urges the community to take steps to protect themselves and loved ones from the flu. Beginning this week, the Public Health Immunization Assistance Program will host
free Adult and Family Flu Clinics throughout Sacramento County.
“Vaccines are proven to reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization and death,” said Sacramento County Public Health Officer Dr. Olivia Kasirye. “Those who cannot receive the vaccine, including infants and individuals with a compromised immune system such as those going through chemotherapy, rely on others being vaccinated to help protect them.”
All clinics take walk-ins, without the need for appointments and will offer flu and COVID-19 vaccines. It is safe to receive flu and COVID-19 vaccines at the same time, according to the CDC.
Vaccination of people at high risk for flu complications is especially important to decrease their risk of severe illness. These include seniors and people with chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, lung disease and kidney disease. If you are at high risk, it is especially important for you to get a flu vaccine this year. Getting a flu vaccine will not only reduce your risk from flu but also help conserve potentially scarce healthcare resources.
The flu vaccine is recommended for anyone aged six months and older, who does not have a contraindication to being vaccinated.
In addition to getting vaccinated, it’s crucial to practice good health habits:
- If you feel flu-like symptoms, limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
- Stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone, except to get medical care or for other necessities.
- Cover your coughs or sneezes and wash your hands.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with flu germs.
For questions or to find out more about the vaccination clinics, contact the Sacramento County Immunization Assistance Program at 916-875-7468 or visit
www.sacvax.com.
The influenza vaccine is adjusted every year to work against the most common strains of the flu. Read more about the 2022/23 flu season on the
CDC FAQ page.
