With temperatures dropping, health officials in San Bernardino are gearing up to help residents combat the season's notorious trio of respiratory viruses: flu, COVID-19, and RSV. As these viruses make their defining annual resurgence, the spotlight is on vaccinations, touted as the preeminent shield for the community's health.
The San Bernardino County Department of Public Health is leading the charge by offering vaccines at zero cost to those without insurance or with inadequate coverage. The vaccines are readily available through health plans, including Medi-Cal, the department announced. The county's calling card for this initiative is the myturn.ca.gov portal where residents can readily sign up for their shots without bearing the financial burden.
Beyond local efforts, nationwide support steps in with the CDC's Bridge Access Program (BAP) that's on deck to dispense free COVID-19 vaccines to uninsured adults. The younger population hasn't been left on the sidelines either, as the Vaccines for Children program ensures that those 18 and under aren't turned away due to a lack of funds.
San Bernardino officials encourage those with symptoms or exposure to COVID-19 to take advantage of available testing options. Antigen tests that deliver results in under half an hour are accessible. For those in need, a free COVID-19 test kit can be tracked down by visiting sbcovid19.com/rapidtests or by following guidance tailored to specific communities at COVID.gov.
