Healthy Savannah Kicks Off Flu Season with Community Advocacy
Savannah, GA – As the holiday season approaches, when family and friends gather together, Healthy Savannah is stepping up to remind everyone about the importance of seasonal immunizations. Just recently, on October 19, 2024, the organization celebrated the graduation of 21 dedicated Community Health Advocates (CHA) who completed their training with the goal of promoting health within their communities.
With respiratory illnesses like flu, COVID-19, and RSV peaking during the colder months, it’s crucial for everyone to stay vigilant. According to Nichele Hoskins, Adult Vaccination Program manager, “The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone over six months of age, and high-dose flu vaccine options are available for those 65 and older.” You can find the flu shot available at the Chatham County Health Department, most pharmacies, and various health providers across the area.
Time to Get Vaccinated!
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that seasonal respiratory illnesses often rise between December and February. “COVID and other illnesses that affect the lungs typically spike in the winter when people spend more time indoors and together,” Hoskins explained. With the holiday gatherings on the horizon, Healthy Savannah, in partnership with the YMCA of Coastal Georgia, has launched the “Let’s Stay Healthy Together” campaign. This initiative emphasizes the importance of boosting immunity now to help reduce vulnerability to seasonal viruses later.
It typically takes 10 to 14 days for the flu vaccine to kick in and provide your body with protection. Therefore, getting vaccinated sooner rather than later is key. The campaign includes a public service announcement circulated on social media, local government channels, and campaigns that can be seen on Chatham County transit buses. Even flyers are being printed and included in City of Savannah water bills!
The flu vaccine is available through appointments at the Chatham County Health Department by calling 912-356-2441. Many people’s insurance plans cover the vaccination, and there are also no-cost options available for those without insurance, which makes it accessible for everyone in the community.
Updated Vaccines Coming Soon
As part of preparing for the colder seasons, additional shipments of the updated COVID-19 vaccine for the 2024-2025 respiratory virus season are expected to be available soon. Residents are encouraged to reach out to their health providers or the local health department for the latest updates on vaccine availability.
Healthy Savannah and the YMCA are continuously urging community members to roll up their sleeves, get vaccinated, and build up their immunity. “We want everyone to be healthy when traveling and gathering with family and friends for the holidays,” stated Hoskins. “Our community health advocates are doing an amazing job promoting vaccine awareness and acceptance throughout their neighborhoods and churches.”
A Bright Future Ahead
The Community Health Advocate program has been a success! Over the years, the REACH team has conducted several training sessions that have empowered over 80 community members. Their mission is to advance health equity and educate residents about vaccine-preventable diseases. Coming up soon, there will be an eighth cohort starting with a virtual listening session on Nov. 7 at 6:30 p.m. Another online training session follows on Nov. 21 at 6:30 p.m. Community members interested in participating can register by emailing CHAadmin@healthysavannah.org.
For those who complete the CHA program, there’s also a nice perk: a $500 stipend. At the recent graduation celebration, graduates like Joanne Quarterman shared their uplifting experiences. “I’m all about reaching people in the community and the real reward is hearing how vaccinations have saved lives.”
For more information about the CHA program, as well as recommended vaccines for adults, make sure to visit Healthy Savannah’s webpages dedicated to these topics. Together, the community can ensure a healthier future for everyone, just in time for the holiday season!
