The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) issued a reminder on Thursday urging residents to receive vaccinations for three respiratory viruses that tend to spread more readily during the holiday period. The agency highlighted the flu, COVID‑19 and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) as targets for immunization, noting that the vaccines are currently available and covered for most people at local pharmacies and health‑care providers.
Vaccination recommendations by age and risk group
CDPH’s guidance outlines specific groups that should prioritize each vaccine. For the seasonal influenza shot, the department advises anyone six months of age or older, as well as individuals who are considered vulnerable to severe illness, to be vaccinated. The COVID‑19 vaccine is recommended for children aged six to 23 months, pregnant individuals, and adults 65 years or older. Meanwhile, the RSV vaccine is directed toward infants and toddlers, adults 75 years or older, and pregnant individuals.
Dr. Erica Pan, CDPH Director and State Public Health Officer, emphasized the public‑health importance of these measures, stating, “As we head into the holiday season, one of the best gifts we can give ourselves and the people around us is the protection that vaccination provides. Covid-19, flu and RSV can cause serious illness, particularly for infants, older adults and people with certain health conditions.” The statement underscores the heightened risk that the three viruses pose to the most vulnerable populations.
Access, safety and scheduling
The department assures Californians that receiving all three vaccines at the same time is safe. It also points to a publicly available list of risk factors for each disease on the CDPH “Public Health for All” webpage, enabling individuals to assess their own need for protection.
To facilitate uptake, CDPH provides multiple avenues for securing appointments. Residents can schedule vaccine visits through an online portal linked in the agency’s announcement, or they may contact a local pharmacy or health‑care provider directly. The reminder notes that most insurers cover the cost of the shots, removing financial barriers for many eligible recipients.
By issuing this reminder ahead of the holiday travel and gathering season, CDPH aims to curb potential spikes in respiratory illness that could strain health‑care resources. The agency’s outreach reflects a broader strategy to protect community health through preventative vaccination, especially as the state anticipates increased interpersonal contact in the weeks to come.
For additional details on eligibility, risk factors and appointment scheduling, Californians are encouraged to visit the CDPH website or speak with their health‑care provider.
Helene Elliott is the Lead Science & Space Reporter at News Raise. She reports on aerospace missions, astrophysics discoveries, quantum research, and environmental technology.
