Respiratory Season
Learn About The Availability of Respiratory Vaccines
Table of Contents
GHW’s Respiratory Season
01. OVERVIEW
02. FAQS
03. COVERAGE
ENROLLMENT PROCESS
FUTURE SOLUTIONS
IOTA PHI THETA SUPPORT
Overview
Combat Infectious Diseases
Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. is proud to partner with the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) and the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) to support the Good Health WINs initiative. As we enter the respiratory season, we are launching a new campaign to raise awareness about the prevention and treatment of respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19, Flu, RSV, and Pneumococcal disease. This campaign will run from September 1 to the end of the year, with the goal of educating and engaging our communities in proactive health measures.
The NFID, founded in 1973, is a non-profit organization dedicated to educating and engaging the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. Their mission aligns with our commitment to public health, as they strive to prevent and treat infectious diseases, ultimately leading to healthier lives for all. Through valued partnerships with stakeholders from government, academia, professional societies, advocacy groups, and industry, NFID amplifies the impact of educational and outreach efforts.
FAQs
Learn About Respiratory Season
Q: What is the purpose of the respiratory season awareness campaign?
A: The purpose of this campaign is to promote awareness about respiratory illnesses, such as COVID-19, Flu, RSV, and Pneumococcal disease. Our aim is to educate communities on the importance of timely vaccinations and preventive measures, especially as we approach the colder months when these illnesses are more prevalent.
Q: How does Iota Phi Theta support the Good Health WINs initiative?
A: Iota Phi Theta actively supports the Good Health WINs initiative by leveraging our network to promote health education and outreach. We engage our members and communities in activities that encourage vaccination, reduce health disparities, and build trust in medical decision-making. Our efforts are focused on ensuring equitable access to vaccines and combating misinformation.
Q: What are the key objectives of the Good Health WINs initiative during this campaign?
A: The key objectives include increasing equity in vaccine distribution, building community confidence in family medical decision-making, reducing stigma and bias associated with respiratory illnesses, improving access to testing, and expanding the application of health equity principles among healthcare providers.
Q: How can I get involved in the respiratory season awareness campaign?
A: You can get involved by sharing educational materials with friends, family, and neighbors, participating in local health events, and supporting our outreach efforts. We also encourage you to stay informed about the latest health recommendations and spread the message within your community.
Coverage
Protecting Our Communities: Awareness and Prevention During Respiratory Season
During the respiratory season, our focus is on promoting awareness and preventive measures for four key respiratory illnesses: COVID-19, Flu, RSV, and Pneumococcal disease. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know:
COVID-19
- Vaccine Availability: Updated COVID-19 vaccines are available to protect against the latest variants. It’s crucial to stay up-to-date with vaccinations to reduce the risk of severe illness.
- Testing: Testing remains a vital tool in identifying and managing COVID-19. Free testing may be available in your area; check with local health providers.
- Prevention: Along with vaccination, wearing masks in high-risk settings, maintaining good hand hygiene, and practicing social distancing are effective in preventing the spread of COVID-19.
Flu (Influenza)
- Annual Vaccination: The flu vaccine is updated each year to protect against the most common strains. It is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older, particularly those in high-risk groups.
- Symptoms: Common symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, and body aches. Early vaccination can reduce the severity and duration of illness.
- Prevention: In addition to vaccination, avoid close contact with sick individuals, wash hands regularly, and cover coughs and sneezes to prevent the spread of flu.
RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)
- Vaccine & Treatments: While there is currently no widely available vaccine for RSV, treatments are available to manage symptoms, particularly in infants and older adults who are most at risk.
- Symptoms: RSV symptoms can range from mild cold-like symptoms to severe respiratory issues, especially in infants and older adults. Be vigilant and seek medical advice if symptoms worsen.
- Prevention: Regular hand washing, avoiding contact with sick individuals, and disinfecting surfaces can help prevent the spread of RSV.
Pneumococcal Disease
- Vaccination: Pneumococcal vaccines are effective in preventing serious infections like pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections caused by the pneumococcus bacteria. They are recommended for all adults over 65 and for younger individuals with certain health conditions.
- Symptoms: Symptoms can include fever, chills, cough, and chest pain. Early vaccination can prevent severe illness and complications.
- Prevention: In addition to vaccination, maintaining good hygiene practices and avoiding smoking can reduce the risk of pneumococcal disease.
National Foundation for Infectious Diseases
Mission
Educate, Engage, and Protect
Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. is deeply committed to the health and well-being of our communities. In partnership with the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) and the Good Health WINs initiative, our mission is to:
1. Educate: Provide accurate, accessible, and culturally sensitive information about respiratory illnesses such as COVID-19, Flu, RSV, and Pneumococcal disease. We strive to empower our members and communities with the knowledge they need to make informed health decisions.
2. Engage: Actively involve our members, local chapters, and communities in health initiatives. Through outreach, advocacy, and community-based programs, we work to reduce health disparities and improve vaccine coverage, particularly in underserved and marginalized populations.
3. Protect: Promote and facilitate access to life-saving vaccinations and preventive measures. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable healthcare access for all, reducing the spread of infectious diseases, and enhancing the overall health of the communities we serve.
Together with our partners, Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. aims to make a lasting, positive impact on public health by fostering a culture of prevention, health equity, and community support.
Future Solutions
Commitment to Continuous Improvement
Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. is dedicated to continuous improvement in our health initiatives. We will regularly assess the impact of our programs, gather feedback from participants, and adjust our strategies to better serve our communities. By staying at the forefront of public health innovation, we aim to create a healthier, more resilient future for all.
Together with our partners and the communities we serve, we will continue to lead the charge in preventing the spread of respiratory illnesses and promoting overall public health.
Iota Phi Theta’s Support
We Stand With GHW and NFID
Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. is fully committed to the success of the Good Health WINs initiative during this respiratory season. As a community-focused organization, we recognize the critical importance of promoting awareness about respiratory illnesses and ensuring that our communities are protected through timely vaccinations and preventive care.
In partnership with the NFID and NCNW, we will utilize our resources to educate and engage our members and the broader community. Our efforts will include hosting informational sessions, distributing educational materials, and advocating for health equity. We believe that by working together, we can make a significant impact in reducing the spread of respiratory illnesses and safeguarding the health of our communities.
Through our continued support, Iota Phi Theta will contribute to the national effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19, Flu, RSV, and Pneumococcal disease. We stand united with our partners in the fight against these illnesses, emphasizing the importance of vaccination and proactive health measures as we move through the respiratory season. Together, we are stronger, and together, we can create healthier communities.
GLOSSARY
VACCINE ALPHABET SOUP: A GLOSSARY
Choose a Location
● FDA: Food and Drug Association
● WHO: World Health Organization
● ACIP: Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices
● AAP: American Academy of Pediatrics
● AAFP: American Academy of Family Physicians
● ACP: American College of Physicians
● AMA: American Medical Association
● ACOG: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
● MMWR: Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report
● VAERS: Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System
● VSD: Vaccine Safety Datalink
● CISA: Clinical Immunization Safety Assessment Project
● VFC: Vaccines for Children program
● CHIP: Children’s Health Insurance Plan
● VICP: Vaccine Injury Compensation Program