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Vaccinations Update
Dear SMA Patient,
Even as we are relishing these last few weeks of summer, our thoughts are turning toward the “cold and flu season” and how best to stay healthy. With this, we wanted to inform you of vaccine recommendations for this fall.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccine (“Arexvy” from GSK and “Abrysvo” from Pfizer), for those 60 and above, may now receive at your local pharmacy. Since this is brand new (FDA-approved this summer), you may consider spacing 7-14 days from other vaccinations (although “technically,” can be given with other vaccinations, and may in the future be “bundled” with the influenza and COVID-19 vaccines as likely will be recommended annually as protection can wane after 6 months).
Please note that some insurances may not cover the full cost of the vaccine (discuss with your pharmacist), and may be from $250-$300 out of pocket if not.
RSV Vaccine Information Statement | CDC
FDA Approves First Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Vaccine | FDA
We want to share an update regarding the latest CDC recommendations for COVID-19 vaccinations, as we navigate these challenging times together. Our commitment to your well-being aligns with the CDC's guidance, and we endorse the additional 2023-2024 vaccine dose for those aged 65 and older. This decision stems from acknowledging the heightened risk of severe disease in this age group, with over half of COVID-19 hospitalizations occurring in adults aged 65 and older from October 2023 to December 2023. Our practice encourages eligible individuals to schedule their additional vaccine dose at their local pharmacy to enhance protection against severe illness. Your health and safety are paramount, and we're here for any questions or concerns you may have.
We also wanted to bring to light that the CDC has recently updated Covid-19 isolation guidelines to bring in alignment with those for other common respiratory illnesses (like influenza or RSV): people who have Covid-19 should stay home until they have been fever-free (temperature < 100.5) without medication for at least 24 hours or their symptoms have been improving for 24 hours.
Thereafter, one may resume regular activities, although it is still recommended to take extra precautions - improved ventilation, masking and limiting close contact with others - to reduce spreading the virus (particularly, as vulnerable populations - like cancer patients, immune compromised patients, or those with complex medical conditions - remain at-risk for severe illness).
We will continue to ask that patients mask in our office - out of an abundance of caution and to ensure an optimal healing environment - as we care for many vulnerable patients.
COVID-19 Vaccine Information | Washington State Department of Health
Pneumonia vaccine, the PCV 20, available at your local pharmacy. For those patients with chronic medical conditions (for example, with diabetes, heart disease, asthma or cancer) or those over the age of 65 who have not received PneumoVax 23 and Prevnar 13/15 within the last 5 years, staggered 1 month from other vaccines. (You may confirm with your MyChart account under “Immunizations.”)
Of course, if you have any questions or concerns, please reach out! And take good care.
Sincerely,
Your SMA Team
Masking Requirements for Seattle Medical Associates
The mask mandate for WA State changed on April 1, 2023. However, many healthcare facilities throughout Puget Sound continue to require masking. Public Health Insider Statement on Masking
To best protect the safety of all our patients and our staff, patients and visitors will be required to wear a mask while in our clinic.
Thank you for your understanding.
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Upcoming Holiday Closures:
Monday, May 27th, 2024 - Memorial Day
Wednesday, June 19th, 2024 - Juneteenth
Thursday, July 4th, 2024 - Independence Day
Monday, September 2nd - Labor Day
Thursday, November 28th, 2024 - Thanksgiving Day
Friday, November 29th, 2024 - Thanksgiving Friday
Wednesday, December 25th, 2024 - Christmas Day
“It is important to have a doctor with enough time to listen to our health problems without making the patient feel rushed.”