Stay healthy this holiday season with vaccines & preventive measures

By Good Info News Wire

November 15, 2024

DHS urges Wisconsinites to get vaccinated against flu, RSV, and COVID-19 before holiday gatherings to protect themselves and others.

As Wisconsin enters the holiday season, health officials are raising concerns about alarmingly low vaccination rates. According to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS), only 17% of residents have received their flu shots, and a mere 7% have received updated COVID-19 vaccines.

With respiratory illnesses on the rise, healthcare experts are urging immediate action to protect community health during upcoming holiday gatherings.

Critical timing for seasonal vaccinations

DHS Immunization Program Manager Dr. Stephanie Schauer emphasizes the urgency of timing, stating, “Any time is a good time to get vaccinated, but if you haven’t yet, at least two weeks ahead of holiday gatherings is really the best time to get vaccinated.” This two-week window allows the body to develop necessary protective antibodies before potential exposure at social gatherings.

Current vaccination guidelines

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) and CDC have outlined specific recommendations for three key respiratory vaccines:

Influenza vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older
COVID-19 vaccines are advised for all individuals 6 months and older, with additional recommendations for seniors and immunocompromised individuals
RSV vaccination is specifically targeted for pregnant individuals, young children under 9 months, adults 75 and older, and certain at-risk populations

Post-holiday health concerns

DHS Respiratory Disease Epidemiologist Tom Haupt warns about historical trends, noting, “Wisconsin tends to see an uptick in flu, RSV, and COVID-19 related hospitalizations after the November holidays as we head into December.” He advises anyone experiencing symptoms to stay home and seek medical attention for proper testing.

Accessing vaccines

Wisconsin residents can access vaccines through multiple channels:

Primary care providers
Local or Tribal health departments
Community clinics
Vaccines.gov

For those without insurance coverage, assistance programs like the Vaccines for Children program and Vaccines for Adults program are available. Residents can call 211 or 877-947-2211 for assistance with vaccination appointments.

Beyond vaccinations, health officials recommend additional preventive measures, including regular hand washing, proper ventilation during gatherings, maintaining healthy lifestyle habits, and staying home when sick.