The American Lung Association is urging all individuals aged six months and older to receive their annual flu vaccination, as the United States faces the aftermath of its most severe flu season in over a decade. This announcement coincides with National Influenza Vaccination Week.
The 2024–2025 flu season was classified as highly severe by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), marking the highest rate of hospitalizations due to influenza since the 2010-11 season. The CDC notes that people with chronic medical conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other lung diseases are at increased risk for serious complications from the flu.
“Last year’s flu season was a stark reminder of how dangerous influenza can be, especially for people with lung disease and other chronic health conditions,” said Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the American Lung Association. “The flu shot is the best protection we have against severe illness, hospitalization and even death from the flu. We urge everyone six months and older to make vaccination a priority this season.”
CDC data indicate that in previous seasons, nine out of ten adults hospitalized due to influenza had at least one underlying medical condition. Chronic lung diseases, heart disease, and diabetes are among those that increase vulnerability to serious outcomes from influenza infection.
The American Lung Association advises receiving the vaccine in September or October before peak flu activity occurs between December and March but emphasizes that vaccination remains effective throughout the period when influenza is circulating. The organization also points out that it is safe to receive the flu vaccine alongside others such as RSV and COVID-19 vaccines.
Through its current campaign, supported by Seqirus, the association aims to educate people about influenza risks and prevention methods.
For additional information on preventing influenza or protecting respiratory health, visit https://www.lung.org/prevent-flu.
