Health and Fitness : VGH and Clinics Advocates for COVID Vaccine to Safely Navigate the Indoor Season

Protect yourself and your loved ones during the upcoming holidays

(Vinton, Iowa) - With temperatures beginning to drop and Iowans spending more time inside, Virginia Gay Hospital and Clinics and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services are recommending flu and COVID vaccines to ensure the safety and well-being of those in our community.

The indoor season presents unique challenges as enclosed spaces often help contribute to the increased transmission of respiratory viruses. We want to remind Iowans to make sure they and their loved ones are staying on top of getting their flu and COVID-19 vaccines -in addition to following proper hand hygiene and increasing space and distance between yourself and others-to mitigate these risks and create a safer environment for everyone.

Eligible individuals should receive their flu and COVID-19 vaccines in accordance with the guidelines provided by trusted healthcare professionals and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)1. Receiving these vaccines protects you and contributes to collective efforts to curb the spread of the virus, particularly in high-risk settings such as travel and indoor gatherings during the holiday season.

Getting up to date on your flu and COVID-19 vaccination now ensures you will be protected throughout the season. If you have any questions or concerns about the vaccine, it's important to ask your healthcare provider who can provide accurate information.

Contact your provider at: 319-472-6200 to schedule vaccinations. Find the latest information about the COVID-19 vaccine anytime on the CDC website.