Respiratory Virus Season: Get Vaccinated to Stay Healthy
What You Need to Know
Respiratory viruses such as flu, COVID-19, and RSV are common in the fall and winter months. They can surge during the cooler weather and keep people from gathering with family and friends. They cause many people to get very sick or even be hospitalized.
Get Vaccinated, Stay Healthy
"We know that getting vaccinated is the best defense against severe illness and death caused by flu, COVID-19, and RSV," said Nirav D. Shah, MD, JD, principal deputy director of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "Respiratory virus season is here and now is the time to get your updated vaccines so you can focus on what matters most: spending quality time with friends and family."
Who Should Get Vaccinated
Vaccines help people risk less serious illness, so they can do more of what they enjoy. Everyone 6 months old and older should get this season’s flu and COVID-19 vaccines. Adults 75 and older, adults 60-74 years old who have certain health conditions, and adults 60 and older who live in nursing homes should get an RSV vaccine if they have never been vaccinated against RSV. Pregnant people should also get an RSV vaccine to protect their babies from severe RSV disease in their first six months.
Where Can You Get Vaccinated?
There are many places to get vaccines against flu and COVID-19, as well as RSV if you’re eligible. It’s OK to get all of these vaccines in one visit. You can get vaccinated at some doctor’s offices, local health centers, or most pharmacies. To find pharmacies near you, visit vaccines.gov. Your state or local health department may also be able to tell you where you can get vaccinated in your area.
Are the Vaccines Free?
If you have insurance, you can get the vaccines at no cost. If you’re covered by Medicaid, or if you qualify for it, you can get the vaccines at no cost. People with Medicare (Parts B and D) or Medicare Advantage can also get the vaccines for free. If you have private insurance through your job or your state’s marketplace, most plans fully cover the flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines through in-network doctors. If you’re uninsured, you may be able to get the vaccines for free or at a lower cost through patient assistance programs.
Get Vaccinated Now
Vaccines give you the best protection against getting very sick from flu, COVID-19, and RSV. Getting vaccinated soon means you’ll be ready for upcoming winter gatherings. Visit cdc.gov/RiskLessDoMore to learn more about the flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines. Also, you can order free COVID-19 test kits (four per household) at COVIDTests.gov. Talk to your doctor about which vaccines are right for you or visit vaccines.gov to get started today.
Conclusion
Getting vaccinated is the best defense against respiratory viruses. By understanding where to get vaccinated, who should get vaccinated, and how to get vaccinated, you can stay healthy and safe this winter.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the most common respiratory viruses in the fall and winter months?
- Flu, COVID-19, and RSV
- What is the best defense against severe illness and death caused by flu, COVID-19, and RSV?
- Getting vaccinated
- Who should get the RSV vaccine?
- Adults 60 and older who live in nursing homes, adults 75 and older, adults 60-74 years old who have certain health conditions, and pregnant people
- Can I get the vaccines for free?
- Yes, if you have insurance, you may be able to get the vaccines for free. Check with your health insurance provider for more information.
About The Author
