As winter respiratory viruses continue to circulate, the County of Monterey Health Department is encouraging residents to take preventive steps to protect themselves, their families, and the wider community from influenza (flu), COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
Flu activity has increased across California, leading to a rise in emergency department visits and the potential for added strain on local health care systems. Health officials say now is the time to act to reduce the risk of serious illness.
How to Protect Yourself and Your Family
Get vaccinated.
Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent severe illness and hospitalization.
- Everyone ages 6 months and older should be up to date on flu and COVID-19 vaccines.
- Pregnant individuals can protect themselves and their babies by receiving the RSV vaccine between weeks 32 and 36 of pregnancy.
Talk with your health care provider or visit a local pharmacy.
Many pharmacies—including CVS, Walgreens, Walmart, and Costco—offer vaccinations. Most vaccines are covered by insurance, including Medi-Cal.
Free flu vaccine clinic:
The Health Department will offer free flu vaccinations on Saturday, January 24, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Gavilan View Middle School, 18250 Van Buren Ave., Salinas. The clinic is open to everyone ages 6 months and older.
Stay home if you are sick.
Avoid close contact with others and allow yourself time to recover to help prevent spreading illness.
Wash your hands frequently.
Use soap and warm water to reduce the spread of germs.
Cover coughs and sneezes.
Use your elbow, arm, or a disposable tissue to limit transmission.
Consider masking indoors.
Wearing a mask can help protect those most vulnerable to severe illness, including older adults, pregnant individuals, people with weakened immune systems, and young children.
Those at higher risk may wish to use a well-fitted N95 respirator for added protection.
For more information on winter respiratory viruses, visit the County of Monterey Health Department’s Fall and Winter Respiratory Viruses webpage or the California Department of Public Health Respiratory Virus Hub.
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