You wouldn’t know it based on this week’s weather, but winter is coming, and that means it’s time to get a flu shot.

Berrien County Health Officer Guy Miller tells us now is one of the best times to get the flu vaccine because flu cases and hospitalizations in the area are low right now. Meanwhile, he says statewide vaccination rates for flu and COVID are also low this year.

“For influenza right now, it’s pretty low,” Miller said. “It’s about 13% of Michigan residents have received the 2024-2025 influenza vaccine, and only about 5% of Michigan residents have received an updated COVID-19 vaccine.”

That’s not enough. Miller says now is the time to get those shots.

“COVID and flu is both pretty low right now, which doesn’t say don’t take preventative measures.  It says we’re probably going to hit an increase coming up soon.”

The newly updated COVID vaccine was just released in August. As for RSV — he says those over the age of 65 should ask their doctor about getting the vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced this week it’s now also recommending the pneumonia vaccine for everyone over 50.

Miller says you can get many vaccines at the Berrien County Health Department, most pharmacies, and doctor’s offices. He recommends reaching out to one of those and making an appointment.