Get A Flu Shot, Says Rhode Island Health Czar

Getting flu and COVID-19 shots is "is one of the best things you can do" to keep you and yours safe this holiday season, said Rhode Island Director of Health Dr. Jerry Larkin.

And anyone planing to travel for the holidays or to attend holiday gatherings should take steps to prevent the spread of common respiratory viruses, the Rhode Island Department of Health said in a media release.

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"Large gatherings, crowded travel, and more time indoors can mean more viruses spreading this time of year," the release said, noting the state is seeing increases in the percentage of outpatient health care professional visits caused by influenza-like illness.

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"Rhode Islanders should stay up to date with their vaccines," the release said. "Everyone age 6 months or older should be vaccinated against the flu every year. People should also stay up to date on their COVID-19 vaccinations. Children age 6 months to 2 years and adults age 19 years and older, including pregnant women, should be vaccinated."

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Larking stressed the importance of flu and COVID-19 shots.

"Getting vaccinated is one of the best things you can do to keep yourself and the people in your life safe from respiratory illnesses this holiday season," Larkin said in the media release.

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"It's also very important to stay home if you start to feel sick, both now and on the holidays," he said. "This is especially true if you plan to visit older adults or people with underlying health issues."

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