Wisconsin Health Officials Worry About Holiday Virus Spread

Wisconsin health officials are calling for people to get their flu and COVID-19 vaccines before the holidays. They say only 22% of people have gotten a flu shot and 11% have received an updated COVID-19 shot. This is worrying because respiratory viruses like RSV usually spike this time of year. Dr. Stephanie Schauer from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services advises that getting a vaccine at least two weeks before holiday gatherings is the best strategy. This gives your body enough time to build protection against these viruses. Even if you don't get sick, you can help prevent spreading illness to others. To find and schedule a vaccine, you can check with your primary care provider, local or tribal health department, community clinic, or visit the CDC's vaccine site. Wisconsin residents can also call 211 or 877-947-2211 to schedule an appointment. If you don't have insurance, you can visit the DHS website for more information. Besides vaccines, health officials remind everyone to keep up good hygiene and stay home if they feel sick. This is one way to keep our communities safe during the holiday season.