A Message from President Riley

By Office of the President | Oct 16, 2024

Fall into Good Health: Get Vaccinated, Stay Protected, and #KeepCareClose

President Riley

Dear Downstate Community,

As the crisp fall air settles in, now is the perfect time to focus on our health and ensure we are ready for the colder months ahead. The changing season is a natural reminder to stay ahead of our healthcare needs for ourselves, our families, and our loved ones.

One of the best steps we can take this season is to schedule our annual health exams, ensuring we are up to date on essential immunizations. Whether you get a flu shot or visit your local pharmacy for the latest COVID-19 booster, taking preventive action now will help protect you as illnesses peak during the winter.

Here are a few simple ways to stay proactive about your health this season:

Get your influenza (flu) vaccine early to reduce your risk during flu season.
Schedule your COVID-19 vaccination at your local pharmacy, a convenient way to stay protected as new variants emerge.
Schedule routine screenings like blood pressure, cholesterol, or glucose tests with your primary care provider. Early detection is critical to preventing more severe health issues.
Encourage your loved ones—especially young children, seniors, and those with health conditions—to get vaccinated and stay protected.

Taking preventive steps now can make a big difference. According to the CDC, the flu, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are all expected to rise in the coming months. The flu causes between 12,000 and 52,000 deaths annually in the U.S., with children, seniors, and those with compromised immune systems at the highest risk. While COVID-19 continues to evolve, getting vaccinated at your local pharmacy is a simple way to stay protected from new variants. RSV is another concern, especially for infants and older adults, as it can lead to serious respiratory issues, but there are preventive measures available.

You can protect yourself from the flu by getting a flu shot at the upcoming Employee and Student Health Flu Fair on Tuesday, October 29 & Wednesday, October 30, from 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM, PHAB Hall. Employee Health also offers flu vaccines from 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM or at the Downstate Outpatient Pharmacy from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM. Keep an eye out for the Flu Fair notice.

Keeping healthcare close to home becomes even more critical as the weather cools. By staying proactive—whether at the flu fair, a pharmacy, or our Family Health Center at 253 Empire Boulevard—we help reduce the strain on hospitals and protect our community. Staying informed and keeping care close is critical to a healthier, safer winter.

Wishing you good health and wellness this fall; stay healthy, stay safe, and remember to #KeepCareClose.