Protecting Our Most Vulnerable: Why COVID-19 Vaccination Twice a Year Matters for Seniors and the Disabled

Since the start of the pandemic, COVID-19 has disproportionately affected the frail, elderly, and disabled—those most likely to suffer severe illness, hospitalization, or death. At Mobile Physician Associates (MPA), our mission is to keep these high-risk individuals safe, healthy, and at home—and that starts with prevention.

Today, that prevention includes twice-yearly COVID-19 vaccinations. Here's what you need to know and why this recommendation matters more than ever.

COVID-19: Still a Threat for High-Risk Populations

While COVID-19 may now seem "mild" for the general public, that is not the case for those with weakened immune systems, chronic illnesses, or advanced age. Recent CDC and NIH data show that:

• 75% of COVID-19 deaths in the U.S. occur in adults over age 65

• Hospitalization rates are 10–15x higher in adults with multiple chronic conditions

• Recurrent infections increase the risk of post-COVID complications, cognitive decline, and cardiovascular events

  
  

Many of the patients we serve—those in at home, assisted living, receiving home health, or living with conditions like diabetes, COPD, or cancer—remain at high risk for severe complications.

Why Two COVID-19 Vaccinations Per Year?

As of 2024, the CDC and FDA recommend biannual COVID-19 vaccination for high-risk individuals. This includes:

• Adults aged 65 and older

• Individuals with immunocompromised status

• People with multiple chronic medical conditions

  
  

Here's Why:

• Immunity wanes after 4–6 months, especially in older adults

• New variants continue to circulate seasonally, similar to influenza

• Updated vaccines are now strain-specific, improving protection

The fall dose helps guard against winter surges, while the spring dose offers protection during summer variant waves—when family gatherings and travel increase exposure risk.

Proven Benefits of COVID-19 Vaccination in Seniors

Data from the CDC, Kaiser Family Foundation, and JAMA show the measurable impact of consistent COVID-19 vaccination:

• 71% reduction in hospitalization among fully vaccinated seniors

• 69% lower risk of ICU admission for vaccinated elderly individuals

• 57% lower risk of death with up-to-date immunization compared to unvaccinated peers

• Fewer ER visits and readmissions for COVID-related respiratory issues, dehydration, and complications

  
  

At MPA, we've seen firsthand how consistent vaccination keeps our patients out of the hospital and safely at home.

The Role of Mobile Physician Associates

We make vaccination easy and accessible. Our mobile medical teams administer COVID-19 vaccines during routine home visits. No long lines, no pharmacy trips, no stress.

As part of our commitment to comprehensive in-home primary care, we:

• Track vaccination schedules for each patient

• Use updated vaccines from reputable U.S. suppliers

• Educate caregivers and staff at assisted living or board-and-care facilities

• Report vaccination status to primary care physicians and care managers

  
  

Who Should Be Prioritized?

We recommend immediate COVID-19 vaccination for any patient who:

• Is over 65 or disabled

• Lives in a congregate setting (ALF, apartment complex, etc)

• Was last vaccinated over 6 months ago

• Has heart, lung, kidney disease, or diabetes

• Is receiving home health, hospice, or skilled care

  
  

Even if someone has previously been vaccinated or infected, immunity declines over time. Booster doses are key to sustained protection—especially in medically fragile individuals.

Let’s Prevent the Next Hospitalization—Before It Happens

Preventive medicine is core to what we do at Mobile Physician Associates. The COVID-19 vaccine—now recommended twice yearly—is one of the most effective tools we have to keep our patients healthy, stable, and at home.

📞 Call us today at (310) 256-2426 to schedule a visit or vaccine update

🌐 Learn more at www.mymobilephysician.com

📝 Referrals can be submitted anytime at www.ReferMPA.com

Because your health shouldn’t wait—and neither should your protection.