BUTTE COUNTY, CA (MPG) - Butte County Public Health (BCPH) urges Butte County residents to protect themselves against respiratory viruses as we enter the fall/winter season. The best way to protect yourself and your family is for everyone, age six months and older, to get vaccinated against the flu and stay updated with the latest COVID-19 vaccine. In addition to staying current on vaccinations, BCPH urges residents to take additional prevention actions to prevent respiratory illnesses.

Residents can get the annual flu vaccine from their healthcare provider, local pharmacy, or by visiting a community flu vaccination clinic. A list of local flu clinics can be found by visiting:  www.buttecounty.net/952/Get-Vaccinated. BCPH recommends that residents talk with their trusted doctor or healthcare provider about preventing respiratory illnesses and the importance of vaccinations.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends the COVID-19 vaccine for everyone aged 6 months and older. The COVID-19 vaccine significantly reduces the risk of developing severe complications, including Long-COVID, hospitalization and death.

Are Flu and COVID-19 Vaccines Free?

For people with health insurance, most plans will cover flu and COVID-19 vaccines at no cost, although residents may need to use an approved, in-network pharmacy or healthcare facility. Check with your insurance provider if you have questions. The BCPH Health Clinic in Chico and Oroville provide no-cost flu vaccines to eligible children through the Vaccines for Children Program. COVID-19 vaccines are available at its Oroville Health Clinic for uninsured adults through the CDC’s Bridge Access Program (BAP). County BAP vaccination clinics can also be found by visiting MyTurn.ca.gov.

The flu and COVID-19 vaccinations are particularly important for those at higher risk of severe illness, including pregnant women, children under five years of age, older adults, and people with certain underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, obesity, asthma, and heart disease. Vaccination of pregnant women also helps to protect infants too young to be vaccinated.

 In addition to getting a flu and COVID-19 vaccine, BCPH recommends five tips to protect against winter viruses:

Stay Home if You're Sick, Test for COVID-19 and Get Treatment
Staying home when you're sick slows the spread of flu, COVID-19 and RSV. If you're sick, remember to test for COVID-19 and contact your doctor immediately if you're positive to discuss treatment options. Treatments work best when started right after symptoms begin. Keep sick children home from school according to the school’s sick child policy.

Consider Wearing a Mask 
Wearing a mask can significantly slow the spread of respiratory illnesses and protect those who are at risk for severe complications such as babies and young children who do not yet have immunity and are too young to wear a mask themselves, and older adults and people with certain underlying medical conditions. Wearing a mask in public indoor places is a good way to limit the spread of germs.

Wash Your Hands
Frequent handwashing with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds - is an easy and effective way to prevent getting sick and spreading germs.

Cover Your Cough or Sneeze
Remember to cough or sneeze into your elbow, your arm, or a disposable tissue to help prevent the spread of winter viruses. Make sure to wash or sanitize your hands and dispose of your tissue after.

Those who have flu-like symptoms should contact their healthcare provider right away. Symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches and fatigue. If you are sick, stay home from work or school until your illness is over.