When respiratory viruses like the flu, COVID-19, and RSV were in peak season alongside a surge of norovirus cases, experts called it a “quad-demic”. Remember it’s never too late to protect yourself and your loved ones!
During this past respiratory virus season, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Risk Less. Do More. Campaign hosted a variety of community conversations across the nation and provided practical tips and tools to help everyone start 2025 on a healthier note. On January 15, 2025, the campaign stopped in Miami, FL at Sweet Home Missionary Baptist Church to focus on spiritual and physical health – all while providing an on-site vaccination clinic hosted by the Pi Delta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.
The community event was a successful night of engaging discussions led by a panel of experts. Over 100 people attended the in-person event in Miami, 100 COVID-19 test kits were distributed, 8 vaccines were administered, and 6 appointments were made with Walgreens.
The panel discussion, led by a group of experts, touched on a variety of critical topics, from understanding different strains of viruses to recognizing the dangers of misinformation. The panelists included moderator Dr. Monique Spence, PsyD, MBA, Founder of Freedom Heart Foundation and co-founder of South Dade Connections; Dr. Theo Johnson, Pastor of Sweet Home Missionary Baptist Church; James Collins, Assistant Vice President at Doctors Hospital, part of Baptist Health South Florida; Minister Harold Ford, South Area Director of NAACP; Cherise Watson, Owner and Lead Clinical Therapist of Cornerstone Center for Counseling, LLC; and Dr. Cheryl Holder, president of Florida State Medical Association.
Together, they provided valuable insights on how we can combat the “quad-demic” and protect ourselves and our loved ones.
What to Remember During This Season
- Protect ourselves if we are high risk: This season’s flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines are available and provide the best protection against severe disease, especially for certain people who are at risk for hospitalization.
- Don’t forget caregivers: Many people are caregivers to children or older adults. It’s important to remember that the caregiver role is a challenging one and it’s easy to forget that we need to take care of ourselves, especially our health. The more we take care of ourselves, the better we can help our loved ones access medical services or make health decisions that can truly be lifesaving for vulnerable individuals.
- Importance of now: It’s not too late to get vaccinated and if you’re not, make a plan to protect yourself. Talk to your doctor about which 2024–2025 vaccines are right for you.
- Our opportunity to be community for one another: By taking steps to protect our health, we ensure we can be there to support each other and the community.
Listen to the Event for More Information
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