From Crisis to Confidence:
Securing Georgia's Health Infrastructure
We face a "syndemic" of respiratory illness. Armed with a new immunization toolkit, we can move from mandates to empowerment and protect our workforce.
Influenza Activity Level
● LIVE STATUSA Stress Test on Our Infrastructure
Georgia is currently facing unprecedented viral activity. As of late December, influenza activity hit 13 out of 13, the highest possible alert level.
This surge forces hospitals into "diversion status," where ambulances must bypass the nearest facility. This delays critical care for heart attacks, strokes, and trauma victims—impacting every constituent, regardless of flu status.
- The "Drifted" Virus: The current H3N2 Subclade K is particularly severe for children and seniors.
- The "Tripledemic": Flu cases are layered on top of sustained RSV and COVID-19 burdens.
Why This Matters: Economy & Equity
Vaccination is not just a health decision; it's a strategy for economic stability and workforce security.
Workforce Security
Widespread flu is a productivity killer. The severity of H3N2 keeps workers out longer.
"For low-income families, a week of lost wages leads to missed rent or utility payments. Vaccines prevent this destabilization."
Equity in "Medical Deserts"
In rural counties where the ER is 45 minutes away, prevention is a survival strategy.
"We must bridge the trust gap. Top-down mandates fail; community-led education by trusted messengers succeeds."
A Historic Solution for RSV
We are no longer defenseless against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), a leading cause of hospitalization for infants. We now possess a complete "defense toolkit."
Maternal Protection (Abrysvo)
Given during pregnancy to pass antibodies directly to the newborn before birth.
Infant Antibodies (Nirsevimab)
A direct antibody shot providing immediate immunity for babies during their first winter.
Senior Defense
Vaccines for adults 75+ (or 50-74 with risks) to prevent severe "winter pneumonia."
The Legislative "Ask"
How you can help shift the narrative from mandates to empowerment.
Amplify the Message
Communicate that "The risk is real." Remind constituents about the new RSV tools.
Frame as Service
Encourage vaccination as an act of community service—protecting the vulnerable.