San Francisco Department Of Public Health Encourages COVID-19 And Flu Vaccination This Respiratory Virus Season

SAN FRANCISCO – As the fall and winter respiratory virus season begins, the San Francisco Department of Public Health (SFDPH) strongly encourages San Franciscans to get the updated COVID and flu vaccines.

The updated COVID and flu vaccines provide protection against the current strains of both viruses and are the best tools available to prevent severe illness and hospitalization. People who have been vaccinated or have been sick with COVID or flu in the past should still get the updated vaccines. People can get the vaccines through their healthcare provider or local pharmacy.

“San Francisco: Now is the time to get your COVID and flu vaccines. Our administration is working every day to keep San Franciscans safe and healthy, and getting updated vaccines is an important way to protect your family and friends,” said San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie. “I am proud to join our public health leaders to encourage San Franciscans to get vaccinated, protect their loved ones, and be a part of keeping our city safe and healthy.”

SFDPH has aligned with the science-based COVID and flu vaccine guidance provided by the California Department of Public Health and the West Coast Health Alliance. Anyone age 6 months and over can get the COVID and flu vaccines. Both vaccines can be given at the same time. Please visit the San Francisco Department of Public Health website for the full list of vaccine recommendations.

“The COVID and flu vaccines have been proven to be safe and effective and are strongly recommended by SFDPH. Getting both vaccines is especially important for infants and toddlers, older adults, pregnant people, healthcare workers, and people who have medical conditions that put them at higher risk of severe illness. We encourage San Franciscans to set-up an appointment with their healthcare provider or pharmacy today,” said Director of Health Daniel Tsai.

"Respiratory viruses such as COVID and flu must be taken seriously, because many people who get sick end up having to go to the hospital. Fortunately, the updated vaccines provide excellent protection against severe illness and hospitalization. Please do your part to keep our communities healthy and get vaccinated,” said San Francisco Health Officer Dr. Susan Philip.

In addition to getting vaccinated this respiratory virus season, members of the public should consider wearing a well-fitted mask in crowded indoor spaces, including when traveling. People should also stay at home if they are feeling sick.

Visit sf.gov/vax for more information about the vaccines and where to find them.

###