The DuPage County Health Department (DCHD) strongly recommends everyone six months and older, especially people with chronic health conditions or who are pregnant, get their updated COVID-19 and flu vaccines this winter.
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) also spreads in the winter months. Like COVID-19 and flu, RSV causes a respiratory infection that can lead to severe illness and death. Infants and older adults are more likely to develop severe RSV and need hospitalization.
DCHD offers the updated COVID-19, flu, and RSV vaccines to eligible children through the Vaccine for Children (VFC) program. Call DCHD for questions about the availability of specific childhood vaccines or clinic schedules at (630) 682-7400. These vaccines are also available through retail pharmacies and most doctor’s offices —visit www.vaccines.gov to find a location near you.
As we head into the colder months, remember to take these steps to prevent respiratory illnesses this winter:
- Stay Up to Date with Immunizations.
- Practice Good Hygiene. Cover your coughs and sneezes, wash or sanitize your hands often, and clean frequently touched surfaces.
- Take Steps for Cleaner Air. Open windows for fresh outside air, purify indoor air, or gather outdoors when weather permits.
- Take Precautions if You’re Sick. Stay home and away from others if you have respiratory virus symptoms that aren't better explained by another cause.
- Seek Medical Care Promptly. Seek health care right away for testing and/or treatment if you believe you may have a respiratory virus and you have risk factors for severe illness.
Prioritize your health this fall and winter!
Learn more from the DCHD here.