Springfield-Greene County Health (SGCHD) is reminding residents that the arrival of fall also signals the start of respiratory illness season. While influenza season officially began Sept. 28, other illnesses including COVID-19, RSV and pertussis (also known as whooping cough) are also circulating in the community.
Protect yourself and loved ones through vaccination
The Health Department encourages the community to choose vaccination this flu season. Vaccination remains the best method of protection against the flu. While vaccination may not prevent infection in all cases, it has been shown to reduce the severity of illness and risk of hospitalization.
The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone six months and older. It is especially important for young children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with chronic health conditions who are at higher risk for serious complications.
SGCHD encourages community members to get vaccinated early, before peak season during the winter. It takes the body about two weeks after vaccination to build antibodies against the flu.
The flu vaccine is widely available in Greene County at doctors’ offices, pharmacies and local clinics.
Other respiratory illnesses
In addition to flu, Greene County is seeing activity from other respiratory diseases:
- COVID-19 and RSV circulate each fall and winter. Vaccines are available for eligible groups.
- Pertussis (whooping cough) cases have recently increased in Greene County. Pertussis causes a severe, prolonged cough and can be especially dangerous for infants. Vaccination (DTaP or Tdap) is the best prevention, particularly for adults who are around babies.
Everyday prevention matters
Respiratory illnesses spread easily through coughing, sneezing and close contact. In addition to vaccination, residents can protect themselves by:
- Washing hands frequently
- Covering coughs and sneezes
- Staying home when sick
- Seeking testing and treatment when recommended by a healthcare provider
If you get sick
If you develop symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, muscle aches or extreme fatigue, stay home and contact your healthcare provider. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends staying home until at least 24 hours after your fever is gone without the use of fever-reducing medication.
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Media may contact the Health Department PIO Team by call or text at 417-380-2556 or email at [email protected].
Springfield-Greene County Health
“Helping all people live longer, healthier, happier lives.”
health.springfieldmo.gov | facebook.com/SGCHD | x.com/SGCHD
417-864-1658
227 E. Chestnut Expressway
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