It’s time to prepare for respiratory illness season. From fall through early spring, illnesses such as the flu, COVID-19 and RSV tend to spread more easily. Some people only experience minor symptoms when they get sick, but others can become severely ill and experience complications.
One of the best ways to protect yourself, your loved ones and your community from these illnesses is to get vaccinated. The Dallas County Public Health Department recommends that everyone 6 months and older receive a flu and COVID vaccine this fall.
To prevent RSV, we recommend that older adults and parents of very young children also ask their primary healthcare provider about vaccines or preventative therapeutics for RSV.
Most clinics and pharmacies will offer the flu and COVID vaccines. You can also search for a vaccine provider near year on Vaccines.gov. It is safe and effective to receive both the flu and COVID vaccines at the same time.
Additionally, the Dallas County Public Health Department offers flu shots to anyone 6 months and older.
The Vaccines for Children (VFC) program and the Vaccines for Adults (VFA) program are two immunization programs that the Dallas County Health Department uses to assist those who do not have health insurance or whose health insurance does not cover vaccines.
VFC additionally covers those ages 18 and younger who are Medicaid eligible or American Indian or Alaska Native.
For those not covered by VFC or VFA, the cost is $30. We can bill to Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance plans, or you can pay via cash, card or check.
Call the Dallas County Public Health Department at 515-993-3750 in order to schedule an immunization program. Walk-in appointments are not available.
Natalie Peters is the community health educator in the Dallas County Public Health Department.
