Date Sent: Nov. 17, 2025
Subject Line: CalHHS Fall Vaccines Message to All State Employees
Dear Fellow State Employees,
As we enter the holiday season, I hope you enjoy meaningful time with family, friends, and loved ones. While we gather and celebrate, it’s important to remember that many respiratory viruses—like flu, RSV, and COVID-19—tend to peak during the fall and winter months.
It’s not too late to protect yourself against these viruses and lower the chance of severe illness and hospitalization. Here’s how:
- Everyone ages 6 months and up should get a flu vaccine.
- California recommends that everyone ages 6 months and up should have access and the choice to receive a COVID-19 vaccine.
- RSV immunization is recommended for older adults, pregnant people and infants.
Visit our new Public Health for All webpage to learn more about vaccine eligibility. You can schedule your vaccine appointment on MyTurn.ca.gov, with your local pharmacy or health care provider.
As you gather in the coming months, you can also take these four simple steps to slow the spread of respiratory illnesses:
- Stay home if you’re sick
- Cover your coughs and sneezes
- Consider wearing a mask in indoor public places, especially while traveling or in crowded settings
- Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly
If you do get sick, consider testing for flu and COVID-19 as soon as possible and contact your health care provider promptly to learn about available treatment options.
For more information, visit the CDPH Respiratory Viruses Hub, which has resources you can share with loved ones and community organizations.
I hope you and your loved ones have a happy and healthy holiday season.
In partnership in service,
Kim Johnson
Secretary, California Health and Human Services Agency