City, County Officials Encourage Flu & COVID Vaccination This Fall
Public Health Madison & Dane County is reminding everyone that getting up to date on flu and COVID vaccines is the best defense against getting seriously sick this respiratory virus season.
Recently, shifting federal guidance has made seasonal COVID vaccination recommendations more complicated. However, Governor Tony Evers has issued a statewide standing medical order which allows anyone 6 months and older in Wisconsin to get the vaccine without a prescription and at no cost.
“We know the federal landscape has been confusing to navigate, but thankfully here in Wisconsin, we are following the science, and the science is clear: COVID vaccines lower your chance of severe illness. We strongly encourage anyone who is able, to get their updated shots,” said Janel Heinrich, Director of Public Health Madison & Dane County.
The CDC recommends the flu vaccine for anyone ages 6 months and older. In terms of timing, it’s best practice to get the flu shot by Halloween to ensure coverage throughout the fall and winter.
“Access to vaccines is not just a health issue, it’s an equity issue. Public Health is working to ensure every person in our community has protection against these respiratory illnesses. If you haven’t gotten your shots yet, now is the time,” said Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway.
Public Health offers free flu and COVID vaccines to eligible children and uninsured adults in Dane County. Appointments are now available in clinic or stop by a mobile clinic.
“Our community is at its best when we look out for one another. Getting vaccinated helps protect not only yourself, but it protects our seniors, our neighbors with health conditions, and anyone else at greater risk of severe complications from the flu and from COVID. These vaccines are safe, they are effective, and they are accessible throughout Dane County,” said Dane County Executive Melissa Agard.
Anyone with questions about accessing fall vaccines should reach out to their doctor, pharmacist, or insurer to best understand the most up-to-date information.
Learn about the up-to-date data used to track respiratory illnesses, like COVID, flu, and RSV, in the community through the Respiratory Illness Dashboard, updated on Thursdays.
