Community health is a top priority at Angelina County & Cities Health District. As we enter the season for FLU, COVID-19 and RSV in our community, we encourage everyone to do their part to stop the spread of illness by washing their hands often, cleaning surfaces regularly, staying home if sick and staying up to date on shots.

The Respiratory Virus Surveillance Report provided weekly by the Texas Department of State Health Services can be found HERE. This report displays the state's latest testing numbers for FLU, COVID-19 and RSV, as well as the location of those cases. The CDC also tracks virus activity levels across the United States. That page can be accessed HERE.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for updates. You can read more about each virus and its vaccine below or click HERE to find further guidance. Please call our office if you have any questions at (936) 633-0608.

Flu
Influenza (flu) is a potentially fatal, contagious respiratory illness caused by viruses that infect the nose, throat and lungs. Flu vaccines can save and protect lives by reducing the risk of serious illness or a hospital stay.

A flu shot is very important for those at higher risk of developing serious flu complications:

• Adults 65 and older
• Adults with certain chronic health conditions, such as asthma, heart disease, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease
• Pregnant people
• Children younger than 5 years, but especially those younger than 2 years old

Resources:

• https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/flu/flu-and-older-adults
• https://www.cdc.gov/flu/highrisk/65over.htm
• https://www.cdc.gov/flu/pdf/freeresources/seniors/seniors-vaccination-factsheet-final.pdf
• https://www.aaaai.org/tools-for-the-public/conditions-library/immuno-deficiency/flu-vaccine-guidance
• https://www.cdc.gov/flu/highrisk/pregnant.htm

COVID-19
Adults and children who have recently received a Covid-19 vaccine must wait two months before receiving the new vaccine. Anyone who has not received a Covid-19 vaccine will be able to receive the vaccine immediately. The number of doses required depends on your medical history.

Uninsured adults can receive this vaccine at ACCHD, CVS and Walgreens. Eligibility requirements may apply. The vaccine is available to uninsured children at ACCHD, but they must meet TVFC eligibility guidelines. Children, adults and seniors with insurance should visit their local pharmacy or consult their medical providers about receiving a Covid-19 vaccine.

Resources: 

• https://www.ncoa.org/older-adults/health/physical-health/covid-19
• https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/covid-19/covid-19-resources-older-adults-and-caregivers
• https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/recommendations/immuno.html
• https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/recommendations/pregnancy.html

RSV
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. However, it can be dangerous for babies, toddlers and older adults.

• Pediatric guidance: Most infants younger than 8 months, born during or entering their first RSV season, should receive one dose of the Sanofi and AstraZeneca monoclonal antibody treatment, Nirsevimab (Beyfortus), as soon as possible. Children aged 8 to 19 months at increased risk of severe RSV disease and entering their second RSV season are also recommended to receive one dose of Nirsevimab. Parents/guardians should consult their healthcare provider.
• Older adult guidance: Adults aged 60 and older can receive their Abrysvo (Pfizer) or Arexvy (GSK) vaccine dose after discussing personal health risks with their healthcare provider.

Resources: 

• https://www.rsvandme.com/rsv-and-older-adults/?cc=ps_QL6LEW2GFC1569206&mcm=330002&gclid=b3b26c6ce5451391018c0a11431a76d9&gclsrc=3p.ds&msclkid=b3b26c6ce5451391018c0a11431a76d9
• https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/older-adults/index.html
• https://www.rsvandme.com/rsv-and-underlying-conditions/
• https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/practice-advisory/articles/2023/09/maternal-respiratory-syncytial-virus-vaccination