Each new season is a reminder to give your health a little extra care. Making sure your vaccines are up to date is a simple way to stay a step ahead of common illnesses.
Who needs them?
While routine vaccines are recommended for everyone, they’re especially important for people at higher risk of severe illness—like older adults, babies and young children, pregnant people, and those with chronic health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease.
There are three common seasonal vaccines you should know about:
- Flu: Recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Updated annually.
- COVID-19: Especially important for adults 65+, people with chronic conditions, and those with weakened immune systems. Updated annually.
- RSV: For adults 60+, pregnant people (to help protect their babies from illness), and babies under 8 months. Typically given October through March.
Why they matter
Vaccines work like training exercises for your immune system—they teach your body to recognize a virus and fight it off before it can make you seriously ill. Getting vaccinated each year helps you:
- Protect yourself from severe illness and unwanted hospital stays
- Protect others by slowing the spread in your family and community
- Protect your plans so you don’t miss work, school, fun activities
Side effects from vaccines are usually mild—you may have a sore arm, fatigue, or a low-grade fever for a day or two. Within two weeks, your body is building protection that will carry you through the season.
Where to go
Your doctor’s office is a great first stop, especially for kids and teens. If that’s not convenient, you can also get vaccines at local pharmacies, walk-in clinics, and even drive-thru sites, including:
- UW Health: John Wall Drive Thru Clinic
- Emplify Health by Gundersen: Vaccination Services and Clinics at Emplify Health by Gundersen
Many vaccines are free, but it’s worth checking your health plan since costs can vary depending on where you go.
Talk to your doctor
Everyone’s health needs are different. Your age, medical history, and previous vaccines all play a role in what’s right for you. Your doctor can help answer any questions you might have. Talk with them to make a personalized plan that keeps you and your family protected year-round, including through healthy habits that help support your immune system.
If you are a Quartz member and have any questions about your health benefits, please call our Customer Success team at (800) 362-3310, Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. – 6 p.m., Friday, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.
