Health Department Reminds Public to Get Flu Vaccine

Published on October 23, 2025

The Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department (LLCHD) today reminded residents that flu season has started and now is a good time to get flu vaccine.

“Flu activity is currently low so we can take advantage of this lead time before cases really ramp up. Getting vaccinated now can help prevent flu-related illness and keep you healthy throughout the winter and holiday season,” said Kerry Kernen, Health Director.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend flu vaccine for everyone age 6 months and older every year. Certain people are at greater risk for serious complications, and it is especially important they receive flu vaccine. They include:   

  • Adults 65 and older
  • Adults with certain chronic health conditions, such as asthma, heart disease, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease
  • Pregnant people
  • Children younger than age 5, but especially those younger than age 2

Flu is a highly contagious disease of the lungs that can cause mild to severe illness and can lead to hospitalization and death. Vaccination can reduce flu-related illnesses, visits to the doctor, missed work and school, and flu-related hospitalizations.

Flu vaccine is widely available in the community at local health care provider offices, pharmacies and clinics. LLCHD provides flu vaccine at no cost or low cost to children age 6 months through 18 years who meet one or more of the following criteria:

  • Those with Medicaid coverage
  • Uninsured
  • American Indian and/or Alaskan Native
  • Underinsured

For more information, call 402-441-8065 or visit lincoln.ne.gov/health (select “Vaccine Clinic” under “Community Health Services”).

2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccine is also available for those age 6 months and older. According to updated CDC recommendations, vaccination is now based on what is called “shared clinical decision-making.” Residents should consult with their health care provider or pharmacist prior to receiving COVID-19 vaccine.

Respiratory syncytial virus or RSV is another common respiratory virus that can be dangerous for infants, young children and older adults. The CDC recommends RSV vaccine for adults age 75 and older and adults ages 50 to 74 at increased risk of severe illness from RSV.

RSV vaccine is also available for pregnant people. RSV is not a yearly vaccine so if you have already received the RSV vaccine, including last year, you should not get another RSV vaccine at this time.

There is an RSV preventive antibody injection for babies who are younger than age 8 months during respiratory illness season. It’s recommended for young children age 8 months to 19 months who are considered high risk. The Health Department recommends residents consult their health care providers to see if RSV vaccination is right for them.

For more information about seasonal flu and other respiratory illnesses, visit cdc.gov/flu.

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