3301 New Mexico Avenue, NW Suite 348

Washington, DC 20016

(202) 362-4467

The Foxhall Internists Immunization Clinic has launched its annual flu clinic.

As was the case last year, this year’s flu vaccines will all be trivalent, providing protection against three of the main groups of influenza Type A and B viruses: an A (H1N1) virus, an A (H3N2) virus, and a B/Victoria lineage virus. In 2024, the CDC and WHO determined one of the B virus groups was no longer statistically causing significant numbers of flu cases and thus removed it from the flu formulations. This year’s formulations remain either egg-based or cell-recombinant-based (which is egg-free).

The egg-based vaccine formulations protect against:

• an A/Victoria/4897/2022 (H1N1)pdm09-like virus;
• an A/Croatia/10136RV/2023 (H3N2)-like virus; and (Updated)
• a B/Austria/1359417/2021 (B/Victoria lineage)-like virus

The cell- or recombinant-based vaccines protect against:

• an A/Wisconsin/67/2022 (H1N1)pdm09-like virus;
• an A/District of Columbia/27/2023 (H3N2)-like virus; and (Updated)
• a B/Austria/1359417/2021 (B/Victoria lineage)-like virus

The CDC still recommends that everyone 6 months and older get a flu shot. This is especially true for healthcare workers, pregnant women, nursing home residents, and those with chronic health conditions or who get frequent infections. Travelers are also strongly encouraged to get vaccinated.

We continue to offer egg-based, egg-free, regular-dose, and high-dose formulations. High-dose formulations are approved for those 65 years and older and help significantly increase protection in this population. Foxhall Internists only offers flu vaccines to patients 16 years and older.

Flu shots are available by appointment in Suite 331 from 10 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. To schedule an appointment, please call (202) 362-4467.

It is best to postpone getting your flu shot if you are acutely ill. To protect other patients and staff, please ask your provider if you have recently been diagnosed with or have tested positive for COVID-19.

SPECIAL NOTICE: Eligible patients may also request to receive their RSV vaccine during the same appointment. RSV is a common respiratory virus that causes mild to severe illness, especially in older adults and people with underlying health conditions. The RSV vaccine is recommended for all adults aged 75 and older, as well as those aged 50 to 74 who are at increased risk for complications of RSV infections. Research has shown that coadministration of RSV and flu vaccines is safe. An order from your doctor is required to receive an RSV vaccine at Foxhall Internists. Please note that if your prescription plan is Medicare Part D, this will only cover the cost of the RSV vaccine if received at a pharmacy that accepts your Part D plan.

Unused medications can sometimes find their way into the wrong hands or the environment, so it’s critical to dispose of them properly.

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day-Fall Edition is Saturday, Oct. 25. On this day, you can safely dispose of unused, unwanted, or expired medications.

Most collection locations will accept any unwanted medication from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

To find a collection, visit DEA.gov/TakeBackDay. There you can enter your location and find a collection site near you.

Medications can be brought in pill containers or loose in ziplock bags.

GIVE YOUR DIET A FALL REFRESH

By Maryssa M.C. Miller, MD, MA, RD

Fall brings with it a wealth of delicious and nourishing seasonal foods that support your health as the weather cools.

• Pumpkin is a standout, rich in beta-carotene for eye health and immunity, plus fiber for digestion. Its seeds offer magnesium, zinc, and healthy fats.
• Apples provide soluble fiber like pectin and vitamin C, which is essential for immune system function.
• Sweet potatoes are also packed with beta-carotene and potassium, which help regulate blood pressure.
• Brussels sprouts are loaded with vitamins C and K and compounds that may help prevent cancer.
• Pears are excellent for their fiber, vitamin C, and copper content.
• Squashes like butternut and acorn are low-calorie and high in vitamin A, fiber, and potassium.
• Kale is a green powerhouse, offering vitamins A, C, and K, along with antioxidants and fiber.

Enjoy these foods roasted, in soups and salads, or even blended into smoothies and baked goods. Incorporating this seasonal produce into your meals is a valuable and easy way to boost immunity, support overall health, and maintain energy.