The American Lung Association has announced a new campaign to promote immunizations as protection against respiratory diseases. The campaign aims to educate the public on the importance of vaccines in preventing severe illness, hospitalization, and death from illnesses such as influenza, COVID-19, pneumococcal pneumonia, pertussis, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The focus is on those at high risk for health complications.
Respiratory illnesses affect millions of people in the United States every year, with seasonal viruses often peaking between October and March. According to preliminary estimates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), during the 2024-2025 respiratory virus season, there were as many as 82 million cases of influenza. These cases resulted in up to 37 million medical visits, up to 1.3 million hospitalizations, and between 127,000 and 130,000 deaths.
CDC data from the previous year also showed that COVID-19 vaccination prevented tens of thousands of hospitalizations and thousands of intensive care unit admissions and in-hospital deaths.
“Immunization is especially important for older adults and individuals with certain health conditions who are at increased risk of severe illness, complications and hospitalization from these vaccine-preventable respiratory diseases,” said Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the American Lung Association. “Not getting vaccinated puts you, your family and your neighbors at risk for severe disease.”
Vaccines prepare the body to defend against germs such as viruses and bacteria. According to the American Lung Association, immunity from vaccination is generally safer and longer lasting than natural immunity acquired after being sick because the severity and recovery from disease are unpredictable.
Older adults and people with underlying health conditions face higher risks from vaccine-preventable respiratory diseases due to weakened immune systems or chronic illnesses such as asthma, heart disease, or diabetes. Respiratory infections can also worsen existing chronic conditions like COPD.
The campaign emphasizes five key vaccinations to help protect adults against severe respiratory illnesses. Pregnant women and those who are immunocompromised may have additional vaccination recommendations and should consult their healthcare providers to ensure they are up-to-date.
Many vaccines can be administered during a single visit to a healthcare provider. The American Lung Association encourages individuals to speak with their healthcare providers about recommended vaccines. Additional information is available through the Lung Association’s HelpLine at 1-800-LUNGUSA or on their website at Lung.org/vaccines.
Sanofi provided support for this campaign.
