Missed the Flu Shot? Central Coast VNA Has You Covered
Flu season may be well underway, but missed the flu shot doesn't have to mean missed protection. If you're in Monterey or surrounding areas and think it might be too late to get vaccinated, think again. At Central Coast VNA & Hospice, we understand that life gets busy. Between work, family, and everything else, it’s easy to let things like flu shots fall through the cracks. But here’s the good news: it’s not too late—and we’re here to help.
In this article, you'll learn:
- Why getting a flu shot is still important—even late in the season
- How Central Coast VNA offers convenient flu shot services across Monterey
- The real risks of skipping vaccination
- Common misconceptions about flu shots and timing
- What to do now if you’ve missed it so far
Let’s dive into the details and get you the protection you need.
Common Challenges: Why People Miss the Flu Shot
It’s more common than you think to have missed the flu shot. In fact, millions of Americans delay or avoid it altogether each year. But why?
Misconceptions About Timing
Many people believe that if they didn’t get vaccinated by October or November, it’s already too late. That’s simply not true. According to the CDC, flu activity can last well into May.
Other Common Reasons Include:
- Busy schedules or long work hours
- Difficulty accessing clinics or pharmacies
- Transportation issues, especially for seniors
- Concerns about side effects or efficacy
- A belief that they “never get sick”
These challenges are real—but so are the risks of skipping the flu shot. At Central Coast VNA, we’re breaking down these barriers every day in Monterey and surrounding communities.
How Central Coast VNA Makes It Easy to Get Vaccinated
If you missed the flu shot, you’re not alone—and you’re not out of options. Central Coast VNA offers convenient, professional, and compassionate flu vaccination services right here in Monterey County.
Our Flu Shot Services Include:
- In-home vaccinations for seniors, disabled individuals, and anyone with limited mobility
- Community flu shot clinics throughout Monterey, Salinas, Hollister, and Santa Cruz
- Flexible scheduling to fit your lifestyle
- Staffed by licensed nurses who prioritize safety and comfort
We’ve been providing trusted public health services for over 70 years. From preventative care like flu shots to compassionate hospice and home health care, we’re here for our community every step of the way.
Why It’s Still Worth Getting the Flu Shot—Even Late in the Season
Even if you missed the flu shot earlier in the year, getting vaccinated now still offers powerful protection. Here’s why:
Tangible Benefits:
- Reduces your risk of getting sick or being hospitalized
- Protects vulnerable family members like children, elderly parents, or immunocompromised individuals
- Minimizes work and school absences due to illness
- Boosts community immunity, slowing the spread
Flu Season Isn’t Over Yet
In Monterey County, flu cases can peak as late as March or April. And with some strains circulating well into May, a late-season shot is far better than no shot at all.
Bonus: COVID-19 & Flu Protection
Central Coast VNA can also offer dual vaccination opportunities, so you can get both your flu and COVID-19 vaccines conveniently and safely from trusted healthcare providers.
Industry-Specific Considerations: Why VNA Is the Right Choice
Choosing the right provider matters. When it comes to catching up on your flu shot, Central Coast VNA brings unmatched local expertise and patient-centered care to the Monterey region.
What Sets Central Coast VNA Apart:
- Deep roots in the community: Serving Monterey County since 1951
- Mobile healthcare solutions: We come to you when you can’t come to us
- Licensed and experienced nurses: Trustworthy, compassionate professionals
- Services beyond flu shots:
- Hospice and palliative care
- Skilled home health nursing
- Rehabilitation therapy
- Volunteer opportunities to support community health
Regional Considerations:
Monterey’s large senior population and rural communities often face accessibility challenges. VNA bridges this gap by offering mobile and home-based healthcare services tailored to the region’s needs.
FAQs: Expert Answers for Your Flu Shot Concerns
1. Is it really too late to get a flu shot?
No! As long as flu viruses are circulating, vaccination is beneficial. It’s better to get protected late than not at all.
2. Does insurance cover late flu shots?
Yes—most major insurance plans, including Medicare, fully cover the cost of flu vaccinations regardless of timing. Check with your provider for details.
3. Can I still get the flu after the shot?
Yes, but the shot significantly reduces severity and risk of complications. It also lowers your chances of spreading the virus to others.
4. Where can I get a flu shot in Monterey if I missed it earlier?
Central Coast VNA offers flu shots in-home, at community clinics, and through public events across Monterey County. Contact us or visit https://ccvna.com to find out where we’ll be next.
5. Can I get a flu shot if I’m already feeling sick?
It depends. If you have a mild illness (like a cold), vaccination is usually still okay. For fever or more serious symptoms, it’s best to wait. Talk to a nurse for guidance.
Stay Protected with Central Coast VNA
If you missed the flu shot, don’t wait any longer. Flu season is still active in Monterey, and protection is just a phone call away. Central Coast VNA makes it easy with:
- Convenient, in-home or community-based flu vaccinations
- Friendly, professional nurses you can trust
- Flexible scheduling that fits your life
Call us today at (831) 372-6668 or visit https://ccvna.com to schedule your flu shot or learn more about our other services.
Don't miss the chance to protect yourself and your loved ones. Your health—and your peace of mind—are worth it.
Central Coast VNA & Hospice Your local partner for flu shots, home health, and compassionate care in Monterey County.
✨ Gratitude for Giving Luncheon Highlights! ✨
An incredible afternoon was had by all at our first-ever Gratitude for Giving Luncheon and Fashion Show! Held on 11/6 at the beautiful Club at Pasadera, this event celebrated the dedicated partners, generous supporters, and devoted volunteers who make such a difference for Central Coast VNA & Hospice. Together, we honored and thanked those who help empower over 100 of our CCVNA & Hospice staff members as they bring compassionate, trusted, team-driven care to families and communities across four counties. 💙
From heartfelt speeches to fabulous fashion moments, the day was filled with joy and appreciation. Thank you to our guests and to all those who support our mission-driven work! Find out more about how we continue to serve at ccvna.com.
Enjoy these memories from the day!
Health Matters - VNA & Hospice Article
VNA names Elsa Malispina as Latino outreach coordinator
In an effort to ensure trust within the Latino community and better connect with the underserved, VNA has named Elsa Malispina as its Latino outreach coordinator.
Malispina will provide community education and multicultural connections while assisting patients and families in Monterey, San Benito, Santa Cruz, and South Santa Clara counties.
VNA offers monthly grief support group for South Monterey County residents
Article posted at King City Rustler.com
GONZALES — Grieving is a natural part of life, and impacts each individual journey physically, emotionally and spiritually.
While every loss is unique, Central Coast VNA and Hospice Grief and Loss Program offers a free monthly support group in South Monterey County called New Beginnings, which is designed to help participants share, bond and commiserate.
The program — funded in part by Hospice Giving Foundation, and in partnership with Taylor Farms Family Health and Wellness Center — provides a non-judgmental, fully confidential and supportive environment to share feelings of pain and loss. Individual support is also available, and great efforts are made to reach out to the South Monterey County bilingual community.
The no-cost support group is offered to older adults who have experienced a significant loss of someone in their life. The purpose is to learn about the grieving process and share experiences that help with the emotion of isolation.
The group meets every third Thursday of the month from 4 to 5 p.m. at the Taylor Farms Family Health and Wellness Center, 850 Fifth St. in Gonzales, a part of Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System.
For more information, contact VNA’s Latino Community Outreach Coordinator Elsa M. Malispina or Spiritual Care Coordinator Osa Massen at 831-241-3834.
VNA & Hospice Featured in Coastal Grower Summer 2021
VNA & Hospice
Providing comprehensive and compassionate
services along the Central Coast since 1951
When VNA first began providing comprehensive and compassionate services along the Central Coast in 1951, a gallon of gasoline cost 19 cents and a DJ in Cleveland first
coined the term rock ’n’ roll.
(download full article below, page 58)
Health Matters Features VNA & Hospice 70th Anniversary
Health Matters Features VNA & Hospice 70th Anniversary
VNA Celebrates its 70th anniversary in 2021 by honoring its volunteers and employees, followed by a unique Summer fundraising event. Read more...
On June 26, VNA family and supporters gathered at the Monterey County Fairgrounds for a drive-in style movie night, featuring a video looking back at VNA’s seven-decade history.
Since 1951, the not-for-profit has provided a wide range of home health care, serving Monterey, San Benito, Santa Cruz, and South Santa Clara counties. VNA places an emphasis on individual patient needs and goals, providing care in an ethical, effective, compassionate and fiscally responsible manner.
“VNA has existed in various forms over the years,” says VNA chief executive officer Jane Russo. “What hasn’t changed is our core mission, and the amazing people wanting to give back and provide care, creating that trusted compassion.”
VNA Community Services provides wellness care and aids in immunizations by employing experienced, professional registered nurses. As the only local travel health clinic, VNA provides comprehensive consultation and immunizations for international travelers. Health screenings and education are offered to corporate businesses, in the field or in the boardroom. Nurses provide services to local schools to meet state-mandated screenings, vaccines, and staff education.
The home health division offers key specialty programs, including cardiac, diabetic, orthopedic and palliative care. And of course, VNA Hospice provides a specialized type of care for those facing a life-limiting illness, a peace of mind for their families and their caregivers. The care involves a team-oriented approach to expert medical care, pain management, and emotional and spiritual support expressly tailored to the patient’s needs and wishes.
A key component to the team are the efforts of VNA volunteers, who give their time to improve the lives of others. For the community, grief and loss support are offered to individuals or groups.
VNA Provides Health Services for Seven Decades
VNA Provides Health Services for Seven Decades
“The VNA works closely with many of the area’s skilled nursing and residential facilities. When families couldn’t visit, I could often have a nurse check in on someone. We became the conduit between family and patient,” – Tina Del Piero
On the eve of its 70th anniversary, Central Coast VNA & Hospice moved from outlining celebrations to launching COVID-19 testing and immunization services. The Organization’s clinicians also became a vital source of communication and comfort.
“The VNA works closely with many of the area’s skilled nursing and residential facilities. When families couldn’t visit, I could often have a nurse check in on someone. We became the conduit between family and patient,” says Tina Del Piero, VNA Director of Fund Development.
That dedication has defined the VNA since 1951. The organization assists clients of all ages, delivering school health care, home health assistance, and end-of-life planning and care, and continuing health care education. Some 220 employees and 40 volunteers support the nonprofit, which also collaborates with Meals on Wheels, Alliance on Aging, and other partners.
“We coordinate and connect with resources to best serve our patients, and our team works hard every day to provide specialized, individualized care. It’s all based on trust and compassion,” says VNA Chief Executive Officer Jane Russo. “That’s what our business is about. We’re providing human care to other people.”
Central Coast VNA & Hospice celebrates 70 years on June 29 with food trucks and drive-in showing of the movie “50 First Dates.” For details, and to support the organization, visit ccvna.com.
CARMEL MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2021