As colder months arrive and more time is spent indoors, respiratory viruses like flu, COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and the common cold spread more easily. Protecting yourself and your loved ones now helps ensure a safer, healthier season for our whole community.
Vaccines: Your Best Defense
- Flu Vaccine – Annual protection for everyone 6 months and older.
- COVID-19 Vaccines – Updated doses reduce risk of severe illness and hospitalization.
- RSV Prevention – New options are available for infants, older adults, and those with chronic health conditions. Ask your provider if it’s right for you.
- Routine Adult Vaccines – Tdap, shingles, pneumococcal, and others may be recommended.
Healthy Habits Every Day
- Wash your hands often and use hand sanitizer when needed.
- Cover coughs and sneezes with your elbow or tissue.
- Stay home when you are sick to protect others.
- Improve airflow at gatherings — open windows or use air filters if possible.
- Wear a mask in crowded or high-risk settings.
Protecting Our Community
In Native communities, caring for health is about more than individuals — it’s about protecting elders, children, and future generations. Elders carry wisdom, language, and tradition, and respiratory illnesses can be especially dangerous for them. By staying healthy, we honor their role and keep gatherings safe for all.
Steps You Can Take Now
- Schedule your flu and COVID-19 vaccines at UIHS.
- Talk to your provider about RSV protection, especially if you care for infants or elders.
- Keep sanitizer, tissues, and masks handy during ceremonies, events, and gatherings.
- Encourage friends and family to practice respiratory etiquette.
Together, we can create a healthier season — protecting our elders, families, and future generations.
UIHS clinics offer flu, COVID-19, RSV, and other adult vaccines, along with respiratory health support. Contact your clinic to schedule an appointment.
UIHS Clinic Locations: Where to Go for Care
Visit one of our clinics for vaccines and respiratory care: