Cold, flu and RSV season is already ramping up. What’s the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones this year? Below are answers to that question, straight from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
Do I need a flu shot?
CDC: Everyone ages 6 months and older should get a flu shot. This year’s shot has been updated to protect against a new strain of the flu virus, called influenza A (H3N2).
Do I need a COVID shot?
CDC: Everyone ages 6 months and older should get the updated 2024-25 COVID vaccine when it becomes available, regardless of whether they’ve been vaccinated before. The virus that causes COVID continues to change, and protection from previous vaccinations declines over time. The updated vaccine will protect against the most recent variants.
MNPS will offer free flu shots at locations across Nashville, starting Thursday, September 12, 2024. See the schedule and other details here. Other vaccines will be available, including the updated 2024-25 COVID-19 vaccine.
Do I need the RSV shot?
CDC: RSV stands for respiratory syncytial (sin-SISH-uhl) virus. Recommendations on who should get the RSV vaccination recently changed. They include people age 75+ and people ages 60-74 who are at increased risk of severe RSV. Increased risk includes those with heart or lung disease, certain other chronic medical conditions, and residents of nursing or long-term care facilities.
Bottom line: Getting vaccinated can help you avoid serious illness this fall. And the cost to you is $0 because you’re covered by the Certificated Employee Health Plan.
If you’re unable to make our free flu shot events in September and October, you can:
Stop by the Kroger Pharmacy in the Employee Wellness Center. No appointment is necessary.
Make an appointment at any of the MNPS Health Care Centers by calling 615-259-8755 or scheduling an appointment online.