COVID-19 Updates and More – Stay Safe, Healthy and Protected

Thanks to millions of Americans getting their COVID-19 vaccines, we’ve made progress against the disease. With the virus still around – and variants spreading in many areas – we have to continue the progress we’ve made. As summer begins to wind down and kids start heading back to school, here are a few important reminders.

COVID-19 Vaccine

We’ll keep it short because you’ve heard it all year – but that’s because of how important it is. If you haven’t yet done so, get the COVID-19 vaccine. And encourage your employees to get theirs. The vaccines are safe and effective. To end the pandemic, we need as many people vaccinated as possible. For all you need to know about the COVID-19 vaccines, visit here. We deeply thank you if you’ve already gotten your shots.

Fun (and Safety) in the Sun

If you’re fully vaccinated against COVID-19, you’ve probably been enjoying more of your old pastimes with many events, venues and attractions having reopened. August fun often involves beaches, picnics, ballgames and more, while summer and autumn work also brings us outdoors. All of this means more time in the sun. Keep you and your employees safe from the sun’s harmful UV rays, which can cause sunburn, eye problems and skin cancer. Here are some quick tips:

• Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 15. Put a thick layer on all exposed skin.*
• Wear clothing made from tightly woven fabrics, and – when practical – wear long sleeves and pants.
• Stay in the shade of trees, umbrellas and buildings. Wear a hat to shade your face, ears and neck.
• Wear sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays.
• Check out these two CDC sites for even more helpful information: Sun Safety and Play it Safe.

*Sunscreen isn’t recommended for babies 6 months old or younger. Keep infants out of the sun during midday, but if they need to be in the sun, make sure they’re dressed in protective clothing.

Stay hydrated.

Also remember to stay hydrated, and make sure your employees drink enough water too. To put it most simply, your body needs water to work properly and to survive. We encourage you to visit this webpage from the American Academy of Family Physicians – it’s a quick read and very helpful – giving you information on how to stay hydrated, signs of dehydration, questions to ask your doctor and more.

Back to School Vaccine Information

If you or your employees have kids, now’s the time to make sure they’ve gotten all the vaccines they need to start the new school year. The CDC has provided helpful resources that list the vaccines kids need at what age – check out this easy-to-explore webpage or page 2 of this guide (both have the same information). Ask your child’s doctor if you have any questions. And make sure to call your child’s school or school district to find out what vaccines they need before starting each grade.

Stay safe this August and beyond, and – as always – know that we’re here for you and your employees. Give us a call at the number on the back of your health plan ID card, and visit our webpage for more information about COVID-19. We’re honored to be your trusted health plan partner.

For information on coverage and costs (if applicable) for specific vaccines, please see your health plan documents or call the number on the back of your health plan ID card. We’re always glad to answer any questions you may have.

If you have any questions, you can contact us directly at ClientSupport@healthalliance.org or by calling (217) 902-8151. We’re committed to keeping you and your employees healthy and informed.