Santa Barbara County Public Health Director Dr. Mouhanad Hammami announced that the county is now offering a combined flu and COVID‑19 vaccination program. The rollout targets everyone six months of age and older, with a special emphasis on seniors, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
New mRNA flu vaccine and updated COVID‑19 shot
According to Dr. Hammami, the flu vaccine this season uses messenger RNA (mRNA) technology, the same platform that proved highly effective in the original COVID‑19 vaccines. He said the mRNA flu shot is about 26 percent more effective than traditional flu vaccines.
The updated COVID‑19 vaccine is designed to address the latest circulating variant. While the flu vaccine is recommended for the entire community, the COVID‑19 shot is especially geared toward people over 65, pregnant women, and those with compromised immunity.
One appointment, two protections
Residents can receive both shots in a single visit. “The good thing is that they can be given at the same time, either in each arm or even the same arm,” Dr. Hammami explained. He emphasized that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) supports this approach and that there is no contradiction in receiving both vaccines together.
Convenient access and insurance coverage
The vaccines are being administered at retail pharmacies throughout the county, including locations in Goleta, Santa Barbara, and surrounding communities. Dr. Hammami noted that most insurance plans cover the shots with no co‑pay, making them financially accessible to all residents.
Signs outside CVS stores in Goleta read “Free Flu & COVID‑19 vaccinations – walk‑ins welcome,” reflecting the high demand. Pharmacy staff report a steady stream of callers and walk‑ins seeking the shots.
Addressing concerns and misinformation
Dr. Hammami acknowledged that some community members remain skeptical. He urged people to rely on scientific facts rather than rumors, stating, “There is nothing that is risk‑free, and everything might have a little bit of side effects, but the benefits outweigh the risks.” He described mRNA as a method that uses a piece of the virus’s genetic code to prompt the immune system to produce protective antibodies, contrasting it with older vaccines that used weakened viruses.
One local resident expressed hesitation but said she plans to practice hand‑washing and social distancing while getting vaccinated. Another pharmacy employee described the clinic as “busy but organized,” noting that the county’s outreach efforts have helped spread the word.
What’s next?
The county will continue to monitor vaccine uptake and will provide updates through local news outlets. Residents are encouraged to schedule appointments early, especially seniors and those with underlying health conditions, to ensure they are protected before the peak of flu season.
Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.
