October 29 | Volume 40 No. 31

Westsidestory Newspaper

J.W. Vines Medical Society Urges IE Residents to Get Vaccinated Against the Flu and COVID-19 This Fall

The J.W. Vines Foundation board members and leadership team include Left to Right: Dr. Anthony Fenison, Dr. Leita Harris, Dr. Ernest Levister, Dr. A.J. Rogers, Kamie Taylor, Dr. Michael Nduati.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA — As cooler weather arrives and respiratory illness season begins, the J.W. Vines Medical Society, which represents Black physicians across the region, encourages Inland Empire residents to get their flu and COVID-19 vaccines this fall, before cases typically rise during the holidays and winter months. For years, Black Americans have experienced higher rates of hospitalization and death from both influenza and COVID-19, while also hav ing lower vaccination rates than many other groups. Health experts point to several reasons: higher rates of chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure; gaps in access to regular care; and a long-standing mistrust rooted in real past mistreatment by the medical system. “Flu and updated COVID vaccinations can minimize the risks of serious upper respiratory tract disease, particularly in high-risk populations, those with comorbidities," said A.J. Rogers, MD, FACS, a cardiothoracic surgeon in Riverside and a president of the J.W. Vines Medical Foundation. Timing matters. The flu vaccine takes ap proximately two weeks to be fully protective, so getting vaccinated in October and November means being protected before Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other family gatherings. Residents can generally get flu and COVID-19 vaccinations during the same visit. Vaccination is especially important for adults 65 and older, people living with chronic health conditions, and anyone who cares for young children or elderly relatives. Because federal guidance on COVID-19 vaccines has changed in recent months, residents are encouraged to talk with their doctor or pharmacist about which vaccines are right for them, and whether insurance pays for them. Our community deserves good information from people it can trust. As Black physicians, we are here to give families honest answers so they can make the best choice for themselves and the people they love," said Michael N. Nduati, MD, MBA, MPH, FAAFP, President of the J.W. Vines Medical Society.

Flu and COVID-19 vaccines are available at most doctor’s offices, local pharmacies and community health clinics. Residents can also contact Riverside University Health System– Public Health or the San Bernardino County Department of Public Health for low-cost and no-cost options. To find a Black physician in the Inland Empire, visit VinesMedical.org.