Infectious Disease
How do we protect ourselves and our loved ones from respiratory illnesses this fall?
Respiratory virus season, which includes flu, COVID, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), arrives this time of year, so now is an excellent time to take proactive, preventive measures.The American Academy of Family Physicians and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend vaccination for respiratory illnesses because they offer clear benefits, including:
- They reduce or prevent risks from severe illness and hospitalization for at-risk groups like older adults, newborns, toddlers, and people who have chronic health conditions.
- For all others, they reduce or prevent risks from these common illnesses and help keep others around you from getting them.
Flu
- EVERYONE over age 6 months: It's recommended to receive the flu vaccine by the end of October, BEFORE flu season starts.
- Children: Children ages 6 months to 8 years who have not previously received the flu vaccine will need two doses. They should receive their first dose as soon as possible and their second dose four weeks later. It takes about two weeks after vaccination for the body to develop antibodies that protect against the flu.
- Adults: All adults age 18 and older should receive a COVID-19 vaccine, especially higher-risk groups, including people 65 years and older, and those with chronic conditions, such as asthma, COPD, heart disease, or diabetes.
- Pregnancy: It's recommended that women who are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or breastfeeding get the COVID-19 vaccine. The benefits of COVID vaccination during pregnancy extend to newborns, providing protection for the first six months.
- Children: The COVID vaccine is recommended for children ages 6 months and older. Children younger than 2 years old are at the highest risk for severe COVID-19 and hospitalization.
- Older adults: The RSV vaccine is recommended for adults age 75 or older and those age 50-74 with increased risks for severe illness.
- Newborns: There are two RSV immunizations for babies and some toddlers. One RSV vaccine is given during pregnancy, and the other is given at birth. Talk to your health care provider to see what option is best for you and your baby's health.
