Prepare for a Healthy Fall and Winter: Vaccines You Should Consider
As we approach flu season, schedule time to receive your annual flu shot. Alongside your flu vaccine, consider getting the latest COVID-19 updated vaccine and the newly available vaccine designed to shield you from Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). Last year, these three viruses—the flu, COVID-19, and RSV—struck simultaneously during the fall and winter, earning it the nickname "tripledemic." Health experts are now expressing concerns about a similar scenario this year. “These vaccines are a simple yet powerful way to protect yourself and those around you from getting sick,” advises PIH Health Physician Erika Abueg.
So, who should roll up their sleeves for these vaccines? Let's break it down:
Influenza (Flu) Annual flu vaccines are recommended for all people aged six months and older. Most people only need a single dose of the flu vaccine, but some children under age nine may need a second dose. Getting the flu vaccine in September or October is ideal. If you miss that timeframe, it’s not too late to get a flu shot after that, since flu season usually sticks around until May.
COVID-19 “New updated COVID-19 vaccines are being introduced this fall to target the XBB variants of the COVID-19 virus. These are strains of the virus that came from the Omicron variant and are the most common form of the virus currently in circulation,” shares Dr. Abueg. This vaccine will be available to adults and children aged six months and older starting in late September or October.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently endorsed recommendations for adults aged 60 and older to receive a single dose of the RSV vaccine. This is the first time an RSV vaccine has been available. Talk to your doctor about whether getting an RSV vaccine is right for you.
Make it a priority this fall to protect yourself and your loved ones. Visit our PIH Health pharmacies for walk-in vaccines or PIHHealth.org/Doctors to find a doctor near you.
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