Guardians of health: Navigating fall and winter viruses

Health protection, covid-19 immunization, viral disease prevention concept. Cheerful Asian woman showing shoulder with adhesive bandage after coronavirus vaccine injection on white studio background

It is important to be aware of respiratory viruses that commonly spread in the fall and winter seasons, including the seasonal influenza virus (flu), COVID-19 and the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Vaccinations for flu, COVID-19 and RSV remain the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones against these viruses.

Flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccines will continue to be free for most people through their health insurance plans, including Medi-Cal and regular healthcare providers. For a limited time, the San Bernardino County Department of Public Health offers flu and COVID-19 vaccines at no cost to uninsured and underinsured individuals. Register for both updated vaccines at MyTurn.ca.gov.

Uninsured or underinsured adults are eligible to receive free COVID-19 vaccines through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Bridge Access Program (BAP). Additionally, the Vaccines for Children program is a federally funded program that provides vaccines at no cost to children (18 and younger) who might not otherwise be vaccinated because of inability to pay.

In addition to COVID-19 vaccinations, it is important to get tested when experiencing symptoms or if you have been exposed to COVID-19. Antigen tests or “at-home tests” can usually provide results within 15 to 30 minutes. Please visit sbcovid19.com/rapidtests to find a free COVID-19 test kit near you, or visit Find COVID-19 guidance for your community | COVID.gov.

Additional County Update News – December 22, 2023