Gallatin City-County Health Department provides updates on respiratory viruses for this fall and winter

A significant uptick in COVID-19 cases as well as reported flu cases have already been detected in Gallatin County.
It is important to take proper steps to reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses, including flu and COVID-19, in
order to minimize the strain on the healthcare system this fall and winter.

On September 11, 2023, the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) took action to approve and authorize an updated
COVID-19 vaccine, formulated to more closely target currently circulating variants and to provide protection
against serious consequences of COVID-19, including hospitalization and death. With this new approval, the
bivalent COVID-19 vaccine will no longer be available. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) and the Advisory
Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) have also recommended the 2023-2024 (monovalent, XBB
containing) COVID-19 vaccines are approved for those 12 years or older, and Emergency Use Authorization is for
those six months to 11 years.

Some locations in Gallatin County have received the updated COVID-19 vaccine and are starting to administer
doses. The Gallatin City-County Health Department currently has appointments available on our website or call
for scheduling assistance.

“Flu, COVID-19, and other respiratory viruses are showing up early and fast this fall,” states Lori Christenson,
Gallatin City-County Health Officer. “It’s very important for our communities to do what we can to protect
ourselves and others. Our goal remains to work alongside our community partners to ensure vaccine access
across our communities. Be sure to stay up to date on your COVID-19 and flu vaccines, stay home when you are
sick, wash your hands regularly and effectively, and follow masking recommendations, especially if you are sick.”

Since the Public Health Emergency ended, the sponsorship of free COVID-19 vaccines is no longer available.
However, most insurance companies, including Medicare and Medicaid, will cover the cost of the COVID-19
vaccines under preventative care. Adults who are uninsured or underinsured can receive their updated COVID-19
vaccines at no cost to them when they get their vaccine from the health department. The Gallatin City-County
Health Department is eligible for the CDC’s Bridge Access Program to provide vaccines at no cost. For kids who
are uninsured or underinsured, the Vaccines for Children program helps the health department provide vaccines
at no cost as well. If you have a valid insurance card, please bring it with you to your appointment.

The Gallatin City-County Health Department will be hosting a flu and COVID-19 vaccine clinic on Thursday,
October 19 at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds, building 4 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This clinic will have walk-in
availability for flu, and if vaccine supply remains at current levels, also for COVID-19. The number of COVID-19
doses on hand may be limited for those without a scheduled appointment. There is no waiting period between
getting your COVID-19 and flu vaccine.

The Gallatin City-County Health Department will also continue doing our weekly clinics at the health department
where you can sign up for both flu and COVID-19 vaccines. These clinics are by appointment only, you can find
more details on our website. You can also find flu vaccines at Bozeman Health’s website, or find flu or COVID-19
vaccines at vaccines.gov.

The best place to find the most up-to-date information on COVID-19, flu, and other communicable diseases is on our website, www.healthygallatin.org.