Rural Health encourages Southern Illinois residents to schedule flu, COVID-19 vaccinations

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

SOUTHERN ILLINOIS (KBSI) — Rural Health Inc. is encouraging Southern Illinois residents to schedule flu and COVID-19 vaccinations by the end of October ahead of the winter respiratory virus season.

Rural Health officials said getting vaccinated before the end of October can give people time to develop protection before flu and other respiratory illnesses typically become more widespread.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, flu vaccination can reduce the risk of illness and lower the likelihood of severe illness or hospitalization.

Rural Health said some people, including adults 65 and older and those with certain underlying health conditions, may be advised to receive a high-dose flu vaccine. Patients should talk with their health care provider about which vaccine is appropriate for them.

Flu and COVID-19 vaccines can be administered during the same appointment, according to Rural Health.

“Vaccinating against flu and COVID lowers your risk of contracting both viruses simultaneously, which can devastate the immune system,” said Shawnna Rhine, Rural Health’s director of public relations.

Antiviral medications are also available by prescription to treat flu and COVID-19 infections. Rural Health said the medications can reduce the severity of illness but must generally be started shortly after symptoms begin.

Residents can also help reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses by regularly washing their hands, covering coughs and sneezes and staying home when sick.

Rural Health recommends people discuss vaccination with their health care provider based on their individual health needs.

Appointments with Rural Health Inc. can be scheduled by calling 618-833-4471.