CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – The Champaign-Urbana Public Health District (CUPHD) is now offering both COVID-19 and influenza vaccines for the 2024—2025 season. CUPHD urges residents to protect themselves and their family from these potentially serious illnesses. It is safe to receive both vaccines at the same time. It is recommended that everyone older than six months receive yearly flu and COVID-19 vaccines.
The vaccines are offered at CUPHD by appointment only. To schedule your vaccines, call 217-531-4317. CUPHD can bill most insurance plans; however, no one will be denied access due to being uninsured. CUPHD cannot bill Medicare, so anyone with Medicare should visit a pharmacy or contact their primary physician for vaccinations.
The virus that causes COVID-19 is constantly evolving, and immunity from prior vaccines can wane over time. Vaccination also helps lower the risk of long COVID, which can persist for months. Last season, those who received the 2023—2024 vaccine experienced better protection against illness and hospitalization.
As for the vaccinations against influenza, September and October are the optimal months for flu vaccination, as flu season can start early.