At the beginning of the school year, with the onset of cold weather, comes flu season, which increases the risk of infection with the novel coronavirus and other viruses such as respiratory syncytial virus.
Here’s what you need to know about when, where and which vaccines to get in Fairfield County to reduce your risk of infection.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says everyone six months of age and older should get a flu shot each flu season, especially around September and October. Different types of vaccines are available depending on your age and various health conditions.
According to the CDC website, everyone over 6 months of age should also get the COVID-19 vaccine, which is safe to receive at the same time as the flu shot. If you are 65 years of age or older, are at high risk for severe COVID-19, or have not previously received a COVID-19 vaccine. It is especially important to get the 2024-2025 coronavirus vaccine during cold and flu season.
Even if you have received a COVID-19 vaccine in the past, it is important to continue receiving booster vaccinations. Fairfield County had nearly 400 coronavirus cases in August.
Respiratory syncytial virus is a respiratory syncytial virus, a virus that affects the lungs. In May 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the vaccine for adults and people 65 and older.
The Fairfield County Health Department offers influenza, COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus and other vaccines at clinics in Lancaster and Pickerington. We also offer it at other off-site clinics listed on our website. Clinics are held every Tuesday and Thursday at our corporate office in Lancaster and the third Wednesday of each month at our office in Pickerington. Kroger, Meijer, Walgreens and CVS pharmacies also offer flu shots.
