Champaign-Urbana Public Health District Now Offering COVID-19 and Flu Vaccines for 2024-2025 Season

The Champaign-Urbana Public Health District (CUPHD) has announced that both COVID-19 and flu vaccines are now available for the 2024-2025 season, urging residents to get vaccinated to stay protected during the upcoming fall and winter months. With respiratory viruses like influenza and COVID-19 expected to circulate, CUPHD emphasizes the importance of keeping up to date with both vaccines. Health officials confirm it is safe to receive both the COVID-19 and flu vaccines at the same visit.

Vaccinations are available for everyone aged six months and older, with appointments required to receive them at CUPHD. To schedule an appointment, residents can call 217-531-4317. While CUPHD accepts most insurance plans, no one will be turned away due to lack of insurance or being underinsured. However, those with Medicare are advised to visit a pharmacy or their primary care physician for vaccination, as CUPHD cannot bill Medicare.

COVID-19 Vaccine Update
As the virus that causes COVID-19 continues to evolve, the updated vaccine provides protection against the variants currently leading to infections and hospitalizations across the U.S. Vaccination not only helps reduce the risk of serious illness but also lowers the chance of developing Long COVID, a condition that can persist for months following an initial infection. Last season, those who received the 2023-2024 vaccine experienced improved protection against both illness and hospitalization.

Flu Vaccine Recommendation
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that most people receive one flu vaccine dose per season. While the vaccine can be administered anytime flu viruses are circulating, the CDC suggests September and October as the best time to get vaccinated.

For those seeking additional vaccination sites, CUPHD encourages visiting Vaccines.gov to find nearby locations offering COVID-19 and flu shots. For more information on respiratory viruses, visit the CDC’s website at cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses.

Vaccination Information:

• Location: Champaign-Urbana Public Health District
• Appointments: Call 217-531-4317 to schedule
• Insurance: Most plans accepted, but no one turned away for lack of insurance (except Medicare, which requires visiting a pharmacy or physician)