As October begins, health experts are sounding the alarm for the start of the fall respiratory virus season, urging the public to get vaccinated against the flu, COVID-19, and RSV. While federal guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention remains in limbo due to ongoing legal battles, a coalition of top medical groups has stepped in to fill the void, providing clear recommendations for patients nationwide.
“Vaccination isn’t a guarantee that we’re going to prevent illness,” said Dr. Ryan Stanton of the American College of Emergency Physicians. “But just like the seat belt in your car, it decreases the risk” of the most severe outcomes.
Every year, influenza accounts for hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations and tens of thousands of deaths in the U.S. To combat this, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Family Physicians, among other leading health organizations, agree that everyone 6 months and older should receive an annual flu shot. Officials noted that the previous two flu seasons saw a concerning spike in child deaths, the vast majority of which occurred in unvaccinated minors.
This year brings new options, including the FDA-approved “mFlusiva,” the first mRNA-based flu vaccine. Designed for adults 50 and older, the shot demonstrated a 27% higher effectiveness against symptomatic illness in clinical trials compared to standard vaccines. For those averse to needles, the nasal spray FluMist remains an option for individuals ages 2 to 49.
While federal guidance now prioritizes COVID-19 shots for those 65 and older or those with underlying health conditions, medical societies are encouraging broader coverage. Family physicians advise all adults to consider the latest COVID-19 booster, noting that immunity wanes over time. For seniors, the recommendation is a fall dose followed by a second shot six months later to maintain protection. Data from the Vaccine Integrity Project shows that last year’s vaccines reduced the risk of hospitalization in seniors by 53%.
The fall season also carries the threat of RSV, a respiratory virus that can be life-threatening for infants and the elderly. Health experts are advising a one-time RSV vaccine for adults 75 and older, as well as for high-risk individuals aged 50 to 74. Vaccination during late pregnancy is also being strongly recommended to provide critical immunity to newborns.
With the height of the respiratory season approaching, experts emphasize that while the shots do not block all infections, they are the most effective tool for preventing the misery of severe illness and emergency room visits. Most vaccinations are widely available at local pharmacies, and under current policies, Medicare and most private insurers will cover the costs. Medical professionals advise acting now, as it takes approximately two weeks for the body to build immunity following vaccination.
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