Photo by Iván Díaz
As the respiratory illness season approaches, health officials are emphasizing the importance of vaccinations against COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), COVID-19 cases are currently elevated, flu season is rapidly approaching, and RSV infections are already on the rise. Predictions suggest that this season could mirror last year’s trends, which saw significant hospitalizations.
This year marks the first time vaccines have been available for all three major respiratory viruses. However, uptake has been notably low in previous seasons. Experts warn that vaccination rates will significantly impact the overall disease burden. Dr. Cohen noted that last year saw over 20 hospitalizations per 100,000 individuals at its peak.
The CDC recommends that everyone aged six months and older receive a COVID-19 vaccine this season to remain current with evolving variants. Updated mRNA vaccines from Moderna and Pfizer target the prevalent KP.2 variant, while a protein-based vaccine from Novavax targets the JN.1 variant.
Additionally, RSV poses particular risks for older adults and infants. The CDC advises that all individuals aged 75 and above receive a single RSV shot, along with those aged 60 and older who have chronic health issues or reside in long-term care facilities.
Importantly, it is safe to receive both the COVID-19 and flu vaccines simultaneously. The CDC also states that individuals can receive COVID-19, flu, and RSV vaccines together if they qualify.
For those seeking vaccinations, they are widely accessible at pharmacies across the United States. The federal government has provided a vaccine locator to help individuals find available doses.
As health officials prepare for a potentially challenging respiratory virus season, they urge communities to prioritize vaccination to protect vulnerable populations.
Sources:
[1] https://www.yalemedicine.org/news/flu-rsv-and-covid-tripledemic
[2] https://theconversation.com/vaccines-against-covid-19-the-seasonal-flu-and-rsv-are-our-best-chance-of-preventing-a-winter-surge-215390
[3] https://www.cnn.com/2024/09/16/health/covid-19-flu-rsv-vaccines/index.html
[4] https://www.heart.org/en/news/2024/08/02/what-to-know-about-who-should-get-vaccinated-and-when
[5] https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/time-get-vaccinated-against-influenza-and-covid-19
[6] https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-024-02121-1
[7] https://www.cnbc.com/2023/09/12/covid-19-flu-rsv-vaccines-who-should-get-them-and-when.html
[8] https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/covid-flu-rsv-vaccines-urged-officials-brace-respiratory-season-rcna98808
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