Fall and Winter are the prime time for illnesses to go around, especially the flu. While the flu shot isn’t effective against all strains of influenza, it does help to keep those to receive it safely again many strains.

Most insurance companies offer no or low-cost flu shots, but if you are uninsured and facing financial difficulties, even $20 for a flu shot can be out of reach. Thankfully there are organizations and resources to help keep you healthy and safe.

If you are in San Diego County, Champions for Health offers free Flu shots, PCV13 shots for those over 65, and Tdap shots for those between the ages of 10-64. They have opportunities all over San Diego County throughout the fall.

If you or your children are in need of vaccinations (flu and beyond) but are without insurance, the san Diego County Health and Human Services Agency offers no-cost vaccines. More information can be found here.

In addition to vaccines, there are a lot of other ways you can stay healthy this fall and winter. Most of us are already doing them!

• Wash your hands frequently- use soap and water and scrub for at least 20-30 seconds.
• Try not to touch your face.
• Cover your nose and mouth when your sneeze (either with a tissue or cough or sneeze into your elbow).
• Use hand sanitizer when you cannot wash your hands with soap and water.
• If you are wearing re-usable/cloth masks, make sure to wash and dry them frequently. Disposable masks should be used once and thrown away. Please remember to clip the elastic ear loops before throwing the mask away- animals can get caught up in the loops.
• Avoid sick people, and if you aren’t feeling well yourself, do not go out in public.
• Eat well, include lots of vitamin and mineral rich foods.
• Stay Hydrated. This is my favorite water bottle.