Coronavirus (COVID-19)

October 2023 Update on COVID-19 Vaccinations

The CDC recommends everyone 6 months and older get an updated COVID-19 vaccine to protect against the potentially serious outcomes of COVID-19 illness this fall and winter. Updated COVID-19 vaccines are now available. For additional details, visit: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/index.html

To find a local vaccine provider, visit:

https://www.vaccines.gov/

Vaccination remains the best protection against COVID-19 related hospitalization and death. Vaccination also reduces your chance of suffering the effects of Long COVID, which can develop during or following acute infection and last for an extended duration. If you have not received a COVID-19 vaccine in the past 2 months, get an updated COVID-19 vaccine to protect yourself this fall and winter.

Most Americans can still receive a COVD-19 vaccine for free. For people with health insurance, most plans will cover COVID-19 vaccine at no cost to you by contacting your healthcare provider or pharmacy. Those without health insurance or with health plans that do not cover the cost can get a free vaccine by contacting an organization participating in the CDC’s Bridge access program. Local providers currently participating in the CDC’s Bridge access program can be found here https://www.vaccines.gov/search/. They include The Dubuque Visiting Nurse Association, CVS Pharmacy, and Walgreens pharmacies. Children eligible for the Vaccines for Children program also may receive the vaccine from a provider enrolled in that program.

This is the first fall and winter virus season where vaccines are available for the three viruses responsible for most hospitalizations – COVID-19, RSV, and flu. In addition to safe, updated COVID-19 vaccines, at-home tests for the virus can identify infection so you can protect your family, coworkers, and the public. Every U.S. household may place an order to receive four free COVID-19 rapids tests delivered directly to your home by visiting https://www.covid.gov/tests or calling 800-232-0233. If you do get sick, talk to your doctor about proven, effective treatments that can reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death.

In addition to vaccines, local public health officials recommend, staying home if you are sick, avoiding close contact with people who are sick, covering your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough, practicing good handwashing, avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, and regularly cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces.