VAPIHCS Continues Offering Updated COVID-19, Flu, and RSV Vaccines to Veterans
TL/DR –
The VA Pacific Islands Health Care System (VAPIHCS) continues to supply updated COVID-19 and flu vaccines, which are essential due to changes in the viruses and waning immunity. VAPIHCS also offers Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccines, with guidelines stipulating that all adults should have a flu vaccine annually and at least one updated COVID-19 vaccine dose for 2024-2025. Upcoming events by VAPIHCS include a PACT Act Registration and Community Call event, a Chaplain and Tea event, and a Thanksgiving Lunch.
VAPIHCS Veterans’ Health Update
The VA Pacific Islands Health Care System (VAPIHCS) continues to offer updated COVID-19 and flu vaccines targeting the latest viral strains. It is crucial to get your updated vaccines promptly due to possible changes in the viral strains and declining immunity.
RSV Vaccination
VAPIHCS also provides vaccines against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) recommended for individuals aged 75 and above, and those 60-74 with risk factors. Having had an RSV vaccine earlier this season? You don’t need another one. Call us on 1-800-214-1306 to schedule your appointment.
Vaccination Guidelines
All adults should receive an annual flu vaccine and at least one updated COVID-19 vaccine dose for 2024-2025. Those over 65 years of age, or with high-risk conditions, may require more COVID-19 vaccine doses. Seek medical advice to understand your needs. Everyone 75 years and older should receive one RSV vaccine dose, while those aged 60-74 should receive a dose if they have chronic heart or lung disease, certain medical conditions, or live in a nursing home. Expectant mothers during the RSV season (September-January) may also need an RSV shot to protect their baby.
Upcoming Community Events
VAPIHCS has lined up a series of events. On November 16, 2024, there’s a PACT Act Registration and Community Call event scheduled at the Maui Community Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC). This event will also celebrate two Veterans older than 100 years with the Secretary of the VA coin and certificate of appreciation. A Chaplain and Tea event is planned for November 18, 2024, at Spark Matsunaga Ambulatory Care Center (ACC), Honolulu, open to Veterans and staff. On November 28, 2024, there’s a Thanksgiving Lunch at the Daniel K. Akaka VA Clinic, Kapolei. For more information, please call 1-800-214-1306.
November Whole Health Message
Marine Veteran Alex Stallworth found hope through Whole Health, recovering from addiction and homelessness. Join other Veterans taking control of their life and health. Watch Whole Health Video here.
Thoughts from Chaplain Richie Charles
Chaplain Richie Charles highlights the need to repurpose life’s challenges into valuable lessons. Echoing the gardener’s perspective, he points out that our experiences’ ‘scraps’ can hold great value. Life’s trials, setbacks, and mistakes can be turned into resilience, lessons, and comebacks when repurposed.
Stay Informed
Website: https://www.va.gov/pacific-islands-health-care/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VAPacificIslands/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/va_pacific_islands/
Podcast: https://vapihcspao.podbean.com/
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