Fall is Coming: Here’s Your Guide to Staying Healthy with Vaccines
As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, it’s time to prepare for the fall season. But with the arrival of fall comes the potential for respiratory illnesses like COVID-19, the flu, and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus). Fortunately, getting vaccinated can significantly reduce your risk of contracting these illnesses and experiencing severe symptoms. This fall, health experts recommend receiving both COVID-19 and flu boosters, and if eligible, the RSV vaccine as well.
Key Takeaways:
- Get a new COVID-19 booster: This year’s vaccine will focus on the Omicron variants currently circulating in the US.
- Update your flu shot: The annual flu shot remains crucial, especially for high-risk groups including older adults, young children, pregnant women, and individuals with certain medical conditions.
- Consider the RSV vaccine: The RSV vaccine is primarily recommended for infants under eight months old and adults 60 years and older, although eligibility varies.
Stay Informed, Stay Safe:
COVID-19: The Latest Boost
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) closely monitor emerging COVID-19 strains. The new COVID-19 vaccine will target the Omicron variant KP.2, a strain currently prevalent in the United States.
When Should You Get It? Dr. Jen Brull, president-elect of the American Academy of Family Physicians, encourages everyone to get vaccinated as soon as possible. She suggests those at higher risk, those who have recently contracted COVID-19, or those who received a late-summer booster may consider waiting slightly longer until the fall.
Cost and Coverage: Most insurance plans cover the COVID-19 vaccine, making it free for many. However, uninsured individuals might face costs reaching up to $200 for the updated vaccine. Dr. Brull notes that local health departments often offer programs providing vaccines at low or no cost for uninsured individuals.
Flu Season: Annual Protection
The annual flu shot is a well-established, vital precaution for everyone over six months old. While the flu vaccine doesn’t always prevent infection, it significantly reduces the severity of symptoms and hospitalization rates.
High-Risk Groups: The CDC identifies certain groups as having a higher risk of severe flu complications:
- Individuals over 65 years old
- Children under five years old, especially those under two
- Pregnant women
- People with chronic conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, and asthma
Dr. Andrew Pavia, chief of the division of pediatric infectious diseases at the University of Utah, emphasizes that even in the absence of risk factors, influenza can be debilitating.
Timing: Dr. Brull recommends getting your flu shot at the same time as your COVID-19 vaccine. This simultaneous approach could enhance your immune response.
Cost and Coverage: Similar to the COVID-19 vaccine, insurance plans typically provide free access to flu vaccines. Dr. Brull highlights that health departments often offer flu vaccines at low or no cost for uninsured adults.
RSV: Protection for Infants and Older Adults
The RSV vaccine, unlike other vaccines, primarily focuses on infants and adults at higher risk of severe complications.
Infants: Infants under eight months old born during this RSV season, which typically runs from October through March, or entering their first RSV season should receive the vaccine.
Adults: The CDC has updated its recommendations for adults who should get the RSV vaccine:
- Adults 75 and older are strongly encouraged to receive the vaccine.
- Adults 60 to 74 are recommended to get the vaccine only if they have specific chronic medical conditions or reside in nursing homes.
Timing: Dr. Pavia emphasizes that those at risk should receive the RSV vaccine as soon as it is available.
Cost and Coverage: Coverage for the RSV vaccine varies. While some Medicare plans fully cover the vaccine, uninsured individuals could face significant costs. Dr. Pavia notes that private insurance might or might not cover the vaccine.
Staying Safe and Healthy
This fall, get vaccinated to protect yourself and your loved ones from potentially severe respiratory illnesses. Stay informed about the available vaccines, their recommended schedules, and cost considerations. Remember, vaccination is a crucial step toward a healthy and fulfilling fall.
