Staying Strong Together: Protecting Our Veterans This Respiratory Illness Season | VA Northern California Health Care

This time of year brings heightened risks for illnesses like the flu, RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus), and COVID-19. Vaccinations are critical in reducing the risk of severe illness and are key to safeguarding the health of our Veteran community and those who care for them.

Understanding the Threat

Seasonal Influenza

The flu is an annual respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. It can lead to mild to severe symptoms and complications, especially in individuals with underlying health conditions. Symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, and fatigue. The flu can be particularly dangerous for older adults, making vaccinations essential for our Veteran population.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

RSV is a common respiratory virus that usually leads to minor cold-like symptoms. However, it can be severe in infants, older adults, and those with chronic health issues. For Veterans, particularly those in senior living facilities or with compromised health, RSV can lead to significant respiratory problems.

COVID-19

COVID-19 continues to pose challenges with new variants emerging. The virus can cause severe respiratory illness, hospitalizations, and long-term health impacts. Vaccination remains one of the most effective tools in preventing serious illness and transmission within our Veteran community.

Why Vaccinations Matter

Vaccinations are a crucial element of our collective defense against these respiratory illnesses. For Veterans, receiving these immunizations is essential for several reasons:

• Protecting Personal Health: 

  Vaccinations reduce the risk of contracting and spreading infections, which can lead to severe health complications, especially among those with pre-existing conditions.

• Safeguarding the Veteran Community

  With many Veterans living in close-knit communities or attending group activities, vaccinations help prevent the spread of illness, ensuring a healthier environment for all.

• Supporting Caregivers and Healthcare Staff: 

  By reducing the incidence of respiratory illnesses, we lessen the burden on caregivers and healthcare workers, allowing them more capacity to care for those in need.

• Enhancing Overall Community Health: 

  Widespread vaccination helps achieve herd immunity, protecting those who may be unable to receive vaccines due to medical contraindications.

How to get vaccinated

At VA Medical Centers, we are committed to making the vaccination process as accessible and straightforward as possible. Veterans enrolled in VA health care can receive  flu, COVID-19, RSV, and pneumonia vaccines at no cost through several convenient options. 

• Visit a vaccine clinic at your local VA facility:

  Schedule an appointment or ask during your next visit.  Flu vaccines are available on a walk-in basis. Check the list of posted clinic hours for any of VA Northern California Health Care System’s locations. 

• During routine appointments: 

  Ask your provider if you can receive your vaccine(s) during your regularly scheduled appointments. 

• Through VA’s community care network:

  Many local pharmacies and urgent care centers offer flu vaccines to eligible Veterans.  

Take action today

Don’t wait for peak flu season. Talk to your VA provider today about which vaccines are right for you. By staying up to date on your immunizations, you’re not just protecting yourself — you’re helping protect the entire Veteran community.