Scott Eisen/CVS Health via AP Images)

With the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention approval of new mRNA COVID-19 vaccines, the Fresno County Department of Public Health (FCDPH) is encouraging residents to protect themselves and others with the updated vaccine.

The updated vaccine, which includes monovalent components corresponding to the Omicron variant KP.2 strain of COVID-19, is formulated to target the most prevalent variants, providing added protection against COVID-19, according to a FCDPH news release.

Annual flu season is expected to see elevated numbers of respiratory infections, many of which can be confused with COVID-19; FCDPH encourages residents to schedule vaccinations for both COVID-19 and influenza.

“We tend to see rising numbers of respiratory viral infections in the fall, especially as gatherings and holiday events increase the amount of time people spend indoors with their loved ones. As we approach this fall and winter season, we ask individuals to take measurable steps to protect their health and their families,” says Dr. Rais Vohra, Fresno County interim health officer. “Get the updated COVID-19 vaccine along with your annual flu vaccine.”

Vaccines against COVID-19 remain free for most individuals through health insurance plans, including Medi-Cal. The Vaccines for Children (VFC) program also continues to provide no-cost access to vaccines for children.

The CDPH is also hoping to extend the California Bridge Access Program to provide free vaccines to underinsured and uninsured adult populations during the 2024-25 respiratory season.

Residents can contact their primary care physician or local pharmacy to schedule appointments. COVID-19 vaccines are expected to be available for uninsured or underinsured children or Medi-Cal patients by late September and for uninsured or underinsured adults by mid-October at the FCDPH Immunization Program. Appointments can be scheduled by calling (559) 600-3550.

Vaccine sites can be located at My Turn.

More information on COVID-19 can be found here.