Adams County Health Department says it’s not too late for seasonal vaccines

QUINCY — The Adams County Health Department reminds everyone about the peak season of respiratory illnesses. Many respiratory illnesses will be circulating through our community including pneumonia, COVID-19, influenza and RSV.

Residents are encouraged to abide by the following guidelines to stay vigilant in protecting themselves and others against such illnesses:

• Receive vaccines, if eligible. Vaccines are the best defense against severe illness and death caused by RSV, Influenza, COVID-19 and pneumonia.
• Wash your hands. Frequent handwashing is an easy and effective way to stay healthy and slow the spread of germs.
• Practice cough etiquette. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your elbow, not your hands.
• Stay home if you’re sick. Residents who have symptoms should stay home, get tested and seek treatment when necessary.

According to the Illinois Department of Public Health’s Influenza Vaccine Coverage Dashboard, only 26 percent of Adams County residents have received their flu shot this season. That rate is 20 percent lower than the flu vaccine uptake last year.

It is not too late to get up to date on seasonal vaccines. Influenza and COVID-19 vaccines are available for everyone six months and older. RSV vaccines are now available for infants and pregnant women as well as adults ages 60 and older. Pneumonia vaccines are available for adults ages 65 and older as well as adults with chronic conditions who are 19 years and older.

The Adams County Health Department’s immunization clinic is open on a walk-in basis Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. People who want to be vaccinated should bring their photo ID and insurance cards.