This year, be prepared and get vital protection from flu, COVID-19, and RSV.
As autumn rolls in with falling temperatures, we also enter the season for various respiratory illnesses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) expects this year’s season to result in similar or lower peak hospitalizations than the previous year’s. However, numbers will continue to remain higher than those before the COVID-19 pandemic.
In this 2024 fall vaccine update, we will touch upon three common vaccine-preventable respiratory infections that are frequently encountered in colder months.
Influenza
Influenza vaccine is a seasonal vaccine targeted towards the subtypes that are most likely to be circulating in the season. Both injectable and intranasal (administered through the nose) vaccines are available. The injectable vaccine is a killed vaccine, meaning it contains dead fragments of the flu virus. This vaccine is more widely available and used. The intranasal vaccines are live vaccines, containing a live but weaker (attenuated) strain of the flu virus. For this reason, it is recommended that those with weak immune systems avoid the intranasal vaccine. Contrary to popular belief, having an egg allergy does not preclude use of these vaccines.
COVID-19
Like flu vaccines, COVID-19 vaccines are also seasonal. They get updated based on the most recent strains in circulation. Given that new strains continue to emerge, these vaccines need to be boosted periodically to keep up your immunity. There are several options, including mRNA vaccines and non-mRNA vaccines. These vaccines can be given to anyone over the age of six months and are particularly important for those at higher risk. These include the elderly and those with certain chronic health conditions. It is safe to get both COVID-19 and influenza vaccines at the same time.
RSV
Unlike COVID-19 and influenza vaccines, RSV vaccines (vaccines for respiratory syncytial virus) are not seasonal. Arexvy is a single dose vaccine available to those over the age of 75 – and to those with additional risk factors between the ages of 60-74. Abrysvo is a vaccine available to pregnant people between weeks 32 to 36 of pregnancy. Additionally, while it is not a vaccine, Nirsevimab is an antibody available to some newborns who may be at increased risk for severe RSV.
Protect your community with a vaccination clinic
Looking for a fast, efficient way to protect the people you serve from fall respiratory illnesses and other diseases? Partner with Primary.Health to offer simple, accessible vaccinations and other health services for your community, organization, or facility. Talk to our Community Clinic team to learn how we enable groups to set up and offer vaccinations and health and wellness screenings right in their own neighborhood.
Disclaimer: This blog content and linked materials are not intended as individual medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, and should not be considered as such. Any readers with medical concerns should contact a licensed healthcare provider. This blog is provided for informational purposes only.
