Winter: ’Tis the season to tend to your health

With winter underway, it's time to gear up for the colder weather. Follow these tips to stay on top of your health during the winter season, including getting up to date on vaccinations and refilling your prescriptions. And remember-VA is here whenever you need support.

Get your seasonal flu and COVID-19 vaccines

New strains of viruses emerge every winter. Even if you got your COVID-19 and flu shots last winter, it's important to get them again this season to protect yourself against severe illness. If you don't remember when you were last vaccinated, you can use the VA Health Summary feature on My HealtheVet, VA's online patient portal, to view and download your vaccination history.

Move your VA care appointments to telehealth

Winter weather can make it difficult to travel to the closest VA facility. Consider moving your appointments online. VA Video Connect, VA's secure videoconferencing app, lets you meet with your VA providers from the comfort of your home or on the go. Talk to your VA care team to see if a telehealth appointment is possible.

Make sure you have your medication

You can use My HealtheVet's pharmacy tools to manage your VA prescriptions online and submit requests for refills. And if you'll be traveling by plane this winter, be sure to pack your medications in your carry-on bag. That way, your medication schedule isn't affected by any checked luggage delays.

If you need medication in advance of winter travel or need to cancel or reschedule any regular medical appointments, notify your VA care team as soon as possible, preferably four to six weeks before you take off. Send a secure message to your provider through My HealtheVet or use the VA Health Chat app for help with VA prescription refills and scheduling. Learn more about telehealth in VA clinics.