It’s influenza season – time to schedule your flu vaccines! To make things easier, we’ve compiled respiratory virus guidance and related resources.
Respiratory Virus Guidance :Each year, respiratory viruses are responsible for millions of illnesses and thousands of hospitalizations and deaths in the United States. In addition to the virus that causes COVID-19, there are many other types of respiratory viruses, including flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The good news is there are actions you can take to help protect yourself and others from health risks caused by respiratory viruses. Click the link for more detail on each and see this immunization guide infographic.
The importance of vaccines
Data continue to show the importance of vaccination to protect against severe outcomes of COVID-19 and flu, including hospitalization and death. In 2023, more than 916,300 people were hospitalized due to COVID-19 and more than 75,500 people died from COVID-19. During the 2023-2024 flu season, more than 44,900 people are estimated to have died from flu complications.
Everyone 6 months of age and older, with rare exceptions, should get an updated 2024-2025 flu vaccine to reduce the risk of influenza and its potentially serious complications this fall and winter. It is safe to receive COVID-19 and flu vaccines at the same visit. Flu season usually occurs in the fall and winter, with most flu activity peaking between December and February. Flu vaccines can take a few weeks to kick in so medical experts suggest that it’s a good time to get your shot early.
Does a vaccine prevent the flu or Covid-19 entirely?
Not always, but vaccines have been shown to reduce the risk of respiratory illness, hospitalization, and death. This is particularly important for high-risk people and people with underlying health conditions. In other words, if you do get sick, the vaccine will make your illness less severe, and make it less likely you’ll end up in the hospital.
- Schedule flu vaccines at nearby pharmacies
- Learn how to pay for vaccines
- Learn some of the common Flu Shot Myths
- Learn who is at higher risk of flu complications
- Check to see if your children are eligible for free vaccines
- Track the flu activity in your area with the National Activity Flu Map
- Learn more about respiratory illnesses
Free Covid Tests – available by mail soon
According to AP news, U.S. households will be able to order up to four COVID-19 nasal swab tests when the federal program reopens, according to the website, COVIDtests.gov. “The tests will detect current virus strains and can be ordered ahead of the holiday season when family and friends gather for celebrations, an HHS spokesperson said in an emailed statement. Over-the-counter COVID-19 at-home tests typically cost around $11, as of last year.”