SACRAMENTO, Calif., Nov. 15, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Winter is a cherished time for gatherings with family and friends, filled with celebrations and traditions that hold profound significance in Asian cultures. From Thanksgiving and Diwali to Japanese New Year and Chinese New Year, these intergenerational connections are vital to our mental and emotional well-being. However, the approaching winter also brings an increased risk of respiratory viruses, including influenza (flu), RSV and COVID-19, which can disrupt these cherished gatherings and pose severe health risks to those who are most vulnerable.

“It is important to encourage community members, especially those at high risk, to prioritize vaccination. This includes our beloved elders, who are not only already at an increased risk of severe illness but have greater exposure if they live in multigenerational households with young kids or several people working outside the home. Pregnant individuals are also vulnerable and need better protection, as pregnancy heightens the risk of severe illness. Those with chronic conditions or compromised immune systems should consider vaccination a top priority,” said Dr. Rohan Radhakrishna, Chief Equity Officer of the California Department of Public Health.

Immunization remains one of the most effective tools against severe illness, hospitalizations, and deaths caused by winter respiratory viruses.

COVID-19 vaccines continue to be covered through most health insurance plans, including Medi-Cal and regular health care providers. For those who are uninsured or underinsured, vaccines can be accessed through the Center for Disease Control’s Bridge Access program and the Vaccines For Children program, available via the county’s health department or community clinics. Free tests and medications to treat COVID-19 infection are also available.

In addition to vaccination, adopting other preventive measures can help protect families and communities. This includes masking, proper indoor ventilation, hand hygiene, staying home when feeling sick and testing for flu and COVID-19 if you have symptoms, and seeking medication if you test positive. For more prevention tips, visit cdph.ca.gov.

ABOUT THE OFFICE OF COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS AND STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS

 The Office of Community Partnerships and Strategic Communications (OCPSC) manages the State’s highest priority community engagement and public awareness efforts including COVID-19 vaccines and climate justice, water conservation and extreme heat. The Office works with the respective agencies and departments to help inform campaign efforts and supports greater coordination and collaboration within state government.

SOURCE Office of Community Partnerships and Strategic Communications