Last fall and winter saw the highest levels of respiratory illness in more than 25 years, according to preliminary CDC data. Millions were infected with the flu, at least 390,000 were hospitalized and 24,000 died. The agency now projects that COVID‑19, influenza and RSV could generate comparable case and hospitalization numbers this season.
Why Vaccination Matters
“Respiratory viruses sicken and even kill thousands of people every year,” says Dr. Preeti Malani, infectious‑disease physician and professor at the University of Michigan. “Vaccination is a safe and effective way to help prevent illness and prevent severe illness.” The same sentiment is echoed by other experts who stress that early vaccination—ideally before viruses begin to surge—offers the best protection.
COVID‑19 Vaccine Options
Two main types of COVID‑19 vaccines are available:
- mRNA vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna teach cells to produce a harmless piece of the virus, prompting a robust immune response.
- Protein‑based vaccine from Novavax uses a viral protein to trigger immunity, appealing to those who prefer a non‑mRNA option.
Both formulations protect against severe disease, and health officials do not recommend one over the other for people who qualify for both.
Flu Vaccine Choices
Standard flu shots remain appropriate for most individuals six months and older. Options include egg‑based and egg‑free formulations; even those with egg allergies can generally receive any flu vaccine because the egg protein content is minimal.
The nasal spray FluMist offers a needle‑free alternative for eligible people ages 2‑49, though it is not advised for pregnant or immunocompromised individuals.
Adults 65 and older are encouraged to receive an enhanced flu vaccine—high‑dose, recombinant, adjuvanted, or the new mRNA flu vaccine (Moderna’s mFlusiva) approved for those 50 and older. Clinical trials showed mFlusiva to be more effective than a standard‑dose flu shot, providing an additional tool for protecting older adults.
RSV Immunizations
Adults at risk can receive an RSV vaccine, though it is not required annually like the COVID‑19 and flu shots. Once vaccinated, most adults do not need a repeat dose.
Infants receive an antibody medication—not a vaccine—to guard against severe RSV. Most infants do not need both maternal vaccination and the antibody product.
Timing and Convenience
Experts agree that early fall is the optimal time to receive COVID‑19 and flu vaccines. Getting both shots at the same appointment is safe and convenient, and it helps ensure immunity before virus activity rises.
“It’s important to get vaccinated before respiratory virus infections start to increase,” Dr. Malani emphasizes. “Especially since it takes a few weeks to provide a protective immune response.”
Cost and Access
Major health‑insurance plans—including Medicaid, Medicare and CHIP—are expected to cover COVID‑19, flu and RSV vaccines at no cost to eligible patients. Private‑insurance holders should verify that their pharmacy or health‑care provider is in‑network to avoid unexpected charges.
Uninsured individuals can often obtain free or low‑cost vaccines through local health departments or community health centers. Children who qualify may also receive free immunizations via the federal Vaccines for Children program.
Take Action
Residents should consult their health‑care providers to determine which vaccine formulations are best for their age and health status, schedule appointments early in the season, and take advantage of free coverage wherever possible. Protecting yourself and your family now helps keep our communities healthy throughout the respiratory‑virus season.
Original reporting: Wisconsin Watch — read the source article.
