STORY AND PHOTO BY KAREN BOSSICK
St. Luke’s Wood River is now administering the 2023-24 COVID-19 vaccine to adults 19 and older. Scheduling can be done on myChart or https://www.stlukesonline.org/mychart. Those who are not registered for myChart can sign up at https://mychart.slhs.org/MyChart/signup.
The updated COVID-19 vaccine is available in clinics throughout the health system and is expected to be covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid. Uninsured adults can find providers offering free immunizations at https://www.vaccines.gov.
The updated COVID-19 vaccine formulated for better protection against newer circulating strains was approved in September. Those who received the 2022-23 COVID-19 vaccine had greater protection against severe illness and hospitalization than those who did not receive it, according to the Centers for Disease Control.
In addition to St. Luke’s, the vaccine is being offered locally at such venues as Atkinsons’ Market in Hailey, The Apothecary in Ketchum and Luke’s Family Pharmacy in Hailey.
Health authorities are also urging eligible individuals to get vaccinated against flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) given fears over a tripledemic of the flu, COVID-19 and RSV this winter.
“Getting vaccinated for flu, COVID-19, and RSV provides our best defense against these contagious viruses, especially when they circulate simultaneously. By taking these preventive measures, individuals significantly reduce their risk of contracting and spreading these viruses,” said Dr. Jim Souza, Chief Physician Executive, St. Luke’s Health System.
Vaccination helps reduce the severity of illnesses, leading to fewer hospitalizations, and helps to keep hospitals and other healthcare providers with getting overrun with sick people.
“Getting the appropriate vaccinates for flu, COVID-19, and RSV is not just a personal choice; it's a commitment to the health and wellbeing of the entire community,” Souza said.
- The CDC recommends an annual influenza vaccination for everyone 6 months and older. Those wishing to get flu shots at St. Luke’s can do so at https://www.stlukesonline.org/mychart or by calling 208-381-9000. Evening, weekend and walk-in appointments are available, as well.
- The CDC is also recommending RSV vaccines for: Adults over 60; babies younger than 8 months and born during, or entering, their first RSV season, and unborn babies, given during pregnancy.
St. Luke’s is working through requirements and processes for the new RSV treatments. The Apothecary is currently offering RSV vaccines to adults.
St. Luke’s officials note that practicing good hygiene can help prevent disease spread. Protect yourself and others by:
- Covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or shirt sleeve.
- Washing your hands.
- Sanitizing surfaces and objects.
- Masking.
- Staying away from people who are sick or keeping physical distance.
- Getting tested.
- Receiving a prescription for an antiviral treatment if you have COVID-19 or the flu.
- Boosting your immune system health with regular physical activity, a healthy diet, fresh air every day and a healthy amount of sleep each night.
- Getting a vaccination/booster for seasonal viruses including flu, RSV, and COVID-19.