U.S. Health officials are urging individuals aged 6 months and older to get vaccinated against flu and COVID-19 this season. In a press briefing on September 28, CDC Director Mandy K. Cohen emphasized the importance of immunizations to protect against the three major respiratory viruses: COVID-19, flu, and RSV. She stated, "We must use all available tools to protect those most at risk, including infants and young children, pregnant people, older adults, and those with chronic health conditions." Cohen strongly encouraged individuals and their families to get the immunizations that are right for them.
The National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) and the CDC also stressed the significance of flu and COVID-19 vaccinations for individuals aged 6 months and older. They advised those at the highest risk of severe illness to discuss new RSV prevention measures, such as vaccines and monoclonal antibodies, with healthcare providers. Pneumococcal vaccination was also recommended.
However, recent survey results released by the NFID revealed a concerning lack of concern among adults in the United States regarding influenza, COVID-19, and RSV. Only 22 percent of respondents expressed concerns about contracting these illnesses, while only 19 percent were concerned about RSV. Despite 65 percent acknowledging the effectiveness of flu vaccination in preventing hospitalizations and fatalities, 43 percent either do not plan to get vaccinated or are uncertain about it. Additionally, 40 percent intend to receive updated COVID-19 vaccinations, and among individuals aged 60 and older, 40 percent plan to get vaccinated against RSV.
NFID President Patricia (Patsy) A. Stinchfield expressed concern over the complacency around vaccination. She said, "These diseases can be serious, even in healthy children and adults, but the good news is that we now have prevention tools available to help protect people against severe illness and complications. We just need to use them."
Furthermore, data released by the CDC on September 28 showed moderate severity during the 2022-2023 flu season in the United States. There were approximately 31 million symptomatic cases, 14 million medical visits, 360,000 hospitalizations, and 21,000 flu-related deaths, including 176 pediatric fatalities.
It is crucial for individuals to take advantage of immunizations against COVID-19, flu, and RSV to safeguard vulnerable populations. Vaccination is a vital tool in preventing severe illness and complications associated with these respiratory viruses.
