CNN — The respiratory virus season has kicked off in the United States, and health officials are urging people to get vaccinated this October. Vaccines for COVID-19, influenza, and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) are now available. Although the peak of the respiratory virus season typically occurs between December and March, early vaccination can offer crucial protection throughout the season.
It usually takes about two weeks for the body to build a full immune response after vaccination, but this protection can last for several months, according to Janet Hamilton, executive director of the Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists.
COVID-19 is currently circulating at elevated levels in the U.S., with the flu season expected to follow closely behind. Hamilton noted, “We’re still trying to understand exactly what our new normal respiratory disease seasons are going to look like, but we are already seeing a lot of respiratory disease activity in many places across the country.” She strongly encourages individuals to get vaccinated promptly.
Forecasts from the CDC suggest that this respiratory disease season may resemble last year’s, which saw over 20 hospitalizations for every 100,000 people during its peak. The 2023-24 flu season was particularly severe, with at least 200 child fatalities, the highest number on record, most of whom were unvaccinated.
A recent CDC study indicated that the 2024 Southern Hemisphere seasonal flu vaccine reduced the risk of influenza-associated hospitalization among high-risk groups by 35%. If similar flu viruses circulate in the Northern Hemisphere this season, the vaccine’s effectiveness could be comparable.
Hamilton emphasized the importance of vaccination rates in determining the trajectory of illnesses, stating, “The fall respiratory disease vaccines really are a game changer. They are excellent at limiting severe infections and reducing the time you’re sick or away from work.”
Vaccines Available This Season
COVID-19 Vaccines
The CDC recommends that everyone aged 6 months and older receive a COVID-19 vaccine this season. Newer versions target emerging variants, potentially offering better protection against severe disease.
- mRNA Vaccines: Moderna and Pfizer have updated their vaccines to target the dominant KP.2 variant.
- Protein Vaccine: Novavax, which targets the JN.1 variant, is available for those aged 12 and older.
The effectiveness of these vaccines remains uncertain, but CDC data indicated a 54% protection rate against symptomatic infection last season, despite the emergence of new variants.
Flu Vaccines
The CDC recommends a seasonal flu vaccine for everyone aged 6 months and older. Generally, most people require only one dose annually, but first-time recipients under 9 years old may need two doses spaced four weeks apart. A high-dose formulation is available for individuals aged 65 and older.
RSV Vaccines
RSV can pose significant risks to older adults and young children. Vaccines are available to protect these groups, with updated CDC recommendations stating that all adults aged 75 and older, along with those aged 60 and older with certain chronic conditions or living in care facilities, should receive a single RSV shot.
Unlike the flu and COVID-19 vaccines, the RSV vaccine is a one-time dose. Pregnant women can also receive an RSV vaccine to protect their newborns.
Getting Vaccinated
It’s safe to receive multiple vaccines at once, including COVID-19, flu, and RSV shots, which can be administered in the same arm (at least one inch apart) or in different arms. However, there is currently no combination vaccine available, though Moderna has announced plans to file for regulatory approval of a combined COVID-19-flu vaccine in 2024.
Availability and Cost
COVID-19, flu, and RSV vaccines can be found at pharmacies across the U.S. The federal government offers a vaccine locator to help individuals find available doses. While many vaccines are covered by insurance, a program providing free COVID-19 vaccines for uninsured adults has ended due to lack of federal funding. Uninsured adults could face costs of around $201.99 for the updated COVID-19 shot at pharmacies, but some free options may still be available through state and local health departments, supported by $62 million in CDC funding for uninsured adults.
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