Marie Lynn Miranda UIC Chancellor | University Of Illinois At Chicago
As the winter season approaches, health officials in Illinois are urging residents to take steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and influenza. Data indicate that both viruses typically reach their highest levels between December and February. With upcoming holidays and university finals, there is concern about increased transmission in campus environments.
COVID-19 and flu can be transmitted through direct contact with infected individuals, touching contaminated surfaces, exposure to droplets from coughs or sneezes, and spending time in crowded spaces. To reduce risk, people are advised to wash hands frequently after being in public areas such as public transportation or shopping centers, cover coughs and sneezes with an elbow or tissue, consider wearing masks indoors if at higher risk for severe illness, stay up to date on vaccinations, and get tested if symptoms develop. Those who are sick should avoid coming to campus and remain home until they are fever-free.
Health experts emphasize that vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent severe illness, hospitalization, and death from both viruses. Although it is ideal to receive vaccines before peak season in December, getting vaccinated later still offers protection.
The Illinois Department of Public Health recommends annual flu shots for everyone six months of age and older. Vaccines are available at doctors’ offices, pharmacies, and Chicago Public Health clinics. Most major insurance plans cover the cost of the flu shot. Immunity develops about two weeks after vaccination.
A statewide standing order allows adults aged 18 and older to receive COVID-19 vaccines at pharmacies or clinical settings without a separate doctor’s prescription. Coverage for the COVID-19 vaccine continues under most insurance plans including Medicare, Medicaid, ACA marketplace options, and private insurers. Uninsured individuals can find publicly funded vaccine locations using the state’s Vaccine Locator Dashboard (https://dph.illinois.gov/covid19/vaccine/vaccination-locations.html).
University community members enrolled in CampusCare have coverage for annual flu and COVID-19 vaccines at participating providers such as the Family Medicine Center at University Village. For questions about COVID-19 or influenza prevention or assistance locating a vaccine provider, individuals can email phinitiatives@uic.edu.