As we near the start of respiratory virus season, health departments in the Coastal Health District are preparing for shipments of updated vaccines for COVID and influenza, expected this September.
Flu and COVID vaccines are updated each year to give the best protection against currently circulating strains of the viruses. Last week, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized the new COVID vaccine formula for the 2024-2025 season. The FDA approval means previous COVID vaccines can no longer be used.
“Our health departments will offer COVID vaccinations again as soon as we have the updated vaccine in stock,” said Paige Lightsey, immunization program coordinator for the Coastal Health District. “We also expect this year’s influenza vaccine in September, and we encourage everyone to make plans to get both vaccinations this fall.”
Vaccinations for COVID and influenza can be given at the same time and are recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older. Vaccinations are especially important for people at a higher risk for severe illness, like older adults, young children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems.
When the updated COVID and flu vaccines are available in the coming weeks, the Coastal Health District will post announcements on this website, social media platforms, and through local media outlets.
The post Coastal Health District Prepares for Updated COVID and Flu Vaccines this Fall appeared first on Georgia Coastal Health District.