Dear SMA Patient,

 

Following recent changes in CDC guidance which restrict access to the COVID-19 vaccine for the general population under the age of 65. For those under the age of 65 (remains available to those 65 and above), we want to assure you that we will continue to facilitate vaccination for our patients. If you believe that you are eligible to receive based upon underlying medical conditions or have extenuating circumstances that require further consideration (health care worker or care of high-risk individual) please discuss with your pharmacist in order to receive. If you experience any issues at all, please contact our office so that we can work to provide documentation that may be helpful. We are expecting a high volume of questions about vaccination, and would kindly ask that you direct through the MyChart patient portal – or through the SMA general e-mail for those who do not use, at sma@seamedassoc.com – so that patients with urgent medical needs may reach us readily by phone. And in advance, we appreciate your patience: this is a dynamic situation and logistics are still evolving. We will provide ongoing guidance regarding vaccine access as available [our website will be a great resource, https://www.seattlemedicalassociates.com/],  recognizing that there may be unforeseen hurdles (as some pharmacies may “opt-out” of giving vaccinations to those under the age of 65 even with a physician order, or there may be an out-of-pocket expense). Have confidence that our team will advocate where needed so that you get the care you need. We remain committed to protecting your health and that of those around you.

 Please Note: Pharmacies are just now starting to receive their stock of COVID-19 vaccinations, so availability is currently limited.

 Sincerely (and wishing you good health),

 Your Seattle Medical Associates Team

Latest CDC Guidance: 2025–2026 Flu Season | Influenza (Flu) | CDC

At SMA we encourage that most patients receive both the influenza and Covid vaccines. 

Our immune systems do an excellent job of managing viral respiratory infections, with most resolving by days 7-10. We follow Infectious Disease Society guideline and start antibiotics for secondary bacterial infections (sinus or ear infections, pneumonia) if symptoms don't improve by day 14; antibiotics may be prescribed earlier based on one's medical history, combined with high fevers, significant nasal drainage and headache/facial pain, earaches, or cough with shortness of breath. Prescribing antibiotics too early can breed resistance, cause allergic reactions, and affect the gut microbiome – altering the good bacteria that may play a role in chronic medical conditions and dementia.

While our immune systems do an excellent job, vaccinations can be an important part of staying as healthy as possible as well as protecting those vulnerable around us.

Cold & Flu Season Essentials:

As we head into cold and flu season, having the right over-the-counter medications and supplies on hand can help you manage symptoms early and avoid unnecessary trips to the pharmacy when you're feeling under the weather. Here's a checklist of recommended items:

Symptom Relief Medications

  • Pain relievers & fever reducers - Help reduce fever, body aches, and headaches.

    • Acetaminophen (Tylenol) - 500-1000 mg every 8 hours (max does of 3,000 mg per day)

    • Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) - 400-800 mg every 8 hours (max does of 2,400 mg per day)

    • Use caution if any history of heartburn; consider taking a daily Pepcid (famotidine) 20 mg to protect stomach lining while taking NSAID

  • Decongestants

    • Relieve nasal congestion and sinus pressure.

  • Antihistamines

    • Loratadine (Claritin), Cetirizine (Zyrtec) – non-drowsy options

  • Cough suppressants & expectorants

    • Dextromethorphan (Robitussin DM) – suppresses dry cough

    • Guaifenesin (Mucinex) – loosens mucus for productive coughs

  • Throat lozenges & sprays

    • Soothe sore throats and reduce irritation

    • Saline nasal spray or rinse

    • Helps clear nasal passages and relieve dryness

    • Zinc Acetate or Zinc Gluconate Lozenges (Cold-Eeze, Zicam, - Relieve cough and nasal discharge more quickly when treatment is started within 24 hours of symptoms onset

  • Supportive Supplies

    • Digital thermometer - For monitoring fever accurately

  • Humidifier

    • Adds moisture to dry indoor air, easing congestion and coughing

  • Tissues & hand sanitizer

    • For hygiene and reducing spread of germs

  • Electrolyte drinks or rehydration solutions

    • Pedialyte, Gatorade, or oral rehydration salts

    • Prevent dehydration, especially with fever or vomiting

  • Vapor rub (e.g., Vicks VapoRub, Tiger Balm)

    • Provides temporary relief for cough and congestion

    • Rub a thin layer on the chest (Not recommended for children under 2 years of age)

  • Bonus Tips

    • Check expiration dates on all medications.

    • Store items in a cool, dry place.

    • Consider stocking up before symptoms start — prevention is key!

    • Our immune systems do an excellent job of managing viral respiratory infections, with most resolving by days 7-10. We follow Infectious Disease Society guideline and start antibiotics for secondary bacterial infections (sinus or ear infections, pneumonia) if symptoms don't improve by day 14; antibiotics may be prescribed earlier based on one's medical history, combined with high fevers, significant nasal drainage and headache/facial pain, earaches, or cough with shortness of breath. Prescribing antibiotics too early can breed resistance, cause allergic reactions, and affect the gut microbiome – altering the good bacteria that may play a role in chronic medical conditions and dementia.