Milwaukee County Health Leaders Urge Vulnerable Residents to Protect Themselves with Vaccines Before the End of 2024

MILWAUKEE – December 2024 – As the holiday season brings families and friends together for celebrations, Milwaukee County health officials are making a critical push to encourage residents to get vaccinated against flu and COVID-19 before the New Year. With colder weather driving people indoors and respiratory viruses on the rise, now is the time to protect yourself, your family, and your community.

For many, the holidays are a time of joy—of shared meals, travel, and connection. But for older adults, individuals with disabilities, and those with underlying conditions, seasonal viruses like the flu and COVID-19 can pose serious health risks. Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) data shows only 28% of Wisconsinites have received their flu shot this season, and just 14% have gotten the updated COVID-19 vaccine.

To ensure everyone has access to this critical protection, Milwaukee County DHHS Aging and Disabilities Services, in partnership with Health Connections, Outreach Community Health Centers, and Hayat Pharmacy, is hosting vaccination events and mobile clinics across the county. To encourage quick action, gift cards will be available for individuals who receive vaccines at participating events, while supplies last.

For a full list of upcoming events, visit HealthyMKE.com/holidays or call Health Connections at (414) 999-1099.

“As we move indoors for the winter and gather with our loved ones, the risk of catching respiratory illnesses increases,” said Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley. “These illnesses can disrupt holiday plans or even become life-threatening, especially for older adults and vulnerable members of our community. This year, I urge everyone make a plan to get vaccinated before gathering and protect themselves and their loved ones. I’m grateful to Milwaukee County Health and Human Services Aging and Disabilities Services for providing accessible resources to keep our community safe and healthy this winter.”

“Every year, respiratory illnesses hit our most vulnerable residents the hardest,” said Tina Anderson, Administrator of Milwaukee County’s Aging and Disabilities Services. “We’ve heard too many stories of families facing preventable hospitalizations during what should be a joyful season. By offering free vaccines in accessible spaces, we’re working to protect our community and give everyone the peace of mind they deserve this time of year.”

Experts stress that vaccines are the best way to stay healthy, reduce severe illness, and keep healthcare systems from becoming overwhelmed during peak virus season. Vaccination takes about two weeks to build full immunity, making now the perfect time to act before holiday celebrations and New Year gatherings.

Dr. Ben Weston, Milwaukee County’s Chief Health Policy Advisor, emphasized the simplicity and impact of getting vaccinated: “We all want to spend this season enjoying time with loved ones, not recovering from illness. Vaccines are safe, effective, and available at these special events. This initiative is about making it easy for everyone to protect themselves and their families.”

Ericka Sinclair, Founder and CEO of Health Connections, shared her organization’s dedication to ensuring access across Milwaukee neighborhoods: “Health shouldn’t depend on where you live or what resources you have. We’re meeting people where they are—at local events, in trusted spaces—to provide vaccines and guidance. We want everyone to know they have support and options this season.”

Upcoming Vaccination Events:

Milwaukee County ADS Holiday Healing Summit
Wilson Park Senior Center
2601 W. Howard Ave. Milwaukee, WI
Thursday, December 12 | 10am – 1:30pm

West Milwaukee Comprehensive Treatment Center
1610 Miller Park Way West Milwaukee, WI
Friday, December 13 | 8:30am – 12pm

Milwaukee Hmong New Year 2024- WI State Fair Expo Center
8200 W. Greenfield Ave. Milwaukee, WI
Saturday, December 14 | 10am – 3pm

Kelly Senior Center*
6100 S. Lake Dr. Cudahy, WI
Tuesday, December 17 | 9am – 12pm

McGovern Senior Center
4500 W. Custer Ave. Milwaukee, WI
Wednesday, December 18 | 9am – 11am

Wilson Park Senior Center*
2601 W. Howard Ave. Milwaukee, WI
Wednesday, December 18 | 9am – 12pm

River’s Shore Comprehensive Treatment Center
3707 N. Richards St. Milwaukee, WI
Wednesday, December 18 | 8:30am – 10:30am

Clinton Rose Senior Center*
3045 N. Dr. MLK Jr. Dr. Milwaukee, WI
Thursday, December 19 | 9am – 11am

Consulate of Mexico in Milwaukee
1443 N. Prospect Ave. Milwaukee, WI
Thursday, December 19 | 10am – 1pm

West Milwaukee Comprehensive Treatment Center
1610 Miller Park Way West Milwaukee, WI
Friday, December 27 | 8:30am – 12pm

Weekly clinics are held at
Northcott Neighborhood House
2460 N. 6th St. Milwaukee, WI
Please call 414-999-1099 for dates & times

For more information, visit HealthyMKE.com/holidays or call Health Connections at (414) 999-1099.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.