Vaccination News

Measles

You have likely heard or read about the growing concern about the spread of Measles. Many of you have asked if you need to be tested or get a booster. This article from Your Local Epidemiologist lays it out nicely, but feel free to reach out if you have questions.

COVID-19 

Reminder for those 65 years or older and others who are moderately or severely immunocompromised, you are eligible for a second COVID-19 vaccination if it’s been >6 months since your last one.

As a reminder, if you were recently infected, the recommendation is to wait at least 4 months until you get vaccinated. Some suspect the immunity boost from acute infection may last anywhere from 4-6 months, possibly even longer.

Flu (Influenza)

Flu numbers are waning although the season is not yet over, so it’s still not too late to get the flu vaccination, especially if you are at higher risk. You can get it at the same time as other vaccinations, including the COVID-19 vaccination.

Respiratory Virus News

Thankfully, after a terrible flu season, it appears that the rate of infection is decreasing, although we are still listed as “moderate” severity.

Likewise, COVID-19 infections, which have been overall less severe than the flu this winter, are also decreasing.

Norovirus (“stomach flu”) is still circulating, however!

If you want to keep track of the data that is available regarding respiratory viruses, Massachusetts Department of Public Health tracks trends of respiratory illness here.

Here is a good summary article from Your Local Epidemiologist.

Here are the general management guidelines for respiratory viruses, including COVID-19. Of note, these new guidelines do not apply to medical facilities, hospitals, and clinics.

If you come down with symptoms of COVID-19 or Influenza, please alert me. Paxlovid is still recommended for treatment of COVID-19 for those in higher risk categories.

Of course, if you or a loved one are in a high-risk category, consider taking extra precautions. General guidelines for prevention can be found here.

Also, you can contribute to accurate data collection for COVID-19 and Flu by reporting your test results.