County Health Officials Encourage Flu, COVID Vaccines Ahead Of Holidays

SAN DIEGO, CA — San Diego County public health officials are encouraging residents to get their flu and COVID-19 vaccines ahead of the holidays.

As of last week, only 22% of those eligible in the county have gotten their flu shot, while just 7% have received the COVID vaccine. Both rates trail the historic average.

Flu cases are spiking in the region, with more than twice as many reported in the most recent weekly compared with a month earlier, according to the county's Health and Human Services Agency.

"We are already seeing impacts on the most vulnerable in our community and cases are only going to rise as we gather for the holidays and spend long periods of time indoors," said County Public Health Officer Dr. Sayone Thihalolipavan. "Just because you were sick with the flu or COVID-19 in the last year doesn't mean you still can't get infected. Getting both the COVID and flu vaccines also protects those who rely on herd immunity, like grandparents and babies."

During the 2024-25 season, the flu infected more than 39,000 people in the county and killed 220, including seven children — more than triple the previous season's number of deaths. There were more than 29,000 COVID cases and 281 COVOD-related deaths.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone 6 months and older get a flu shot yearly since the components of the vaccine change year to year to match the circulating strains.

Once the vaccine is administered, it takes about two weeks for the body to build up enough antibodies to develop immunity.

The influenza vaccine is available at doctors' offices and retail pharmacies and is covered by medical insurance.

People with no health care coverage can get vaccinated at one of the county's six public health centers or a local community clinic. To find the nearest location, visit myturn.ca.gov or call 211 San Diego.

RSV cases, which primarily hit children and older adults the hardest, are also on the rise, according to the county. Vaccines are widely available for those eligible.

"Getting vaccinated is the best way to keep yourself and your loved ones healthy and safe this holiday season," Thihalolipavan said.