As fall gives way to winter, the Wyoming Department of Health (WDH) is encouraging residents to stay current on seasonal vaccinations, particularly for influenza and COVID-19, Wyoming Tribune Eagle reports.
With both respiratory illnesses expected to surge in the colder months, the WDH advises everyone aged six months and older to receive the latest vaccines if they haven’t already done so this season.
“Seasonal flu shots and updated COVID-19 vaccines are essential tools for protecting against serious illness, hospitalizations, and deaths… These vaccines are safe, effective, and offer our best defense against these viruses,” said Dr. Alexia Harrist, Wyoming’s state health officer and epidemiologist.
With Wyoming already reporting sporadic flu cases and ongoing COVID-19 cases, Dr. Harrist noted that influenza, COVID-19, and other respiratory illnesses will likely be prevalent in the coming months. She also emphasized the importance of getting vaccinated sooner rather than later, as the vaccines can take up to two weeks to become fully effective.
The WDH highlighted that influenza and COVID-19, both respiratory illnesses, share symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, congestion, headache, and muscle aches, which can disrupt daily activities and work schedules. Vaccination also plays a role in preventing virus transmission to high-risk individuals, who may experience more severe complications.
In addition to the flu and COVID-19 vaccines, the WDH suggests that some individuals consider the RSV vaccine. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) typically causes mild symptoms, but it can lead to severe illness in older adults and infants under six months old. Dr. Harrist recommends that adults aged 60 and older, as well as parents of young infants, consult healthcare providers about RSV vaccination.
The WDH reassures the public that flu and COVID-19 vaccinations are widely accessible through local health clinics, pharmacies, workplaces, and doctors’ offices and are generally covered by insurance. The public can also use the vaccines.gov website to find nearby locations offering these vaccines, though calling ahead to confirm availability is recommended. Wyoming’s public vaccine programs provide additional support by offering vaccines at little to no cost for eligible individuals through participating providers.
“We encourage residents to take proactive steps and not wait until sickness spreads… Getting vaccinated now can help keep yourself and those around you safer this season,” said Dr. Harrist.
