Preparing for the 2024-2025 Respiratory Illness Season

As the 2024-2025 respiratory illness season approaches, communities across the region are bracing for the challenges posed by COVID-19, influenza, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). With updated vaccines and new recommendations in place, it is more important than ever for individuals to take proactive steps to protect themselves and their loved ones against these serious respiratory illnesses.

 

Dr. Michael Walters, Aspirus Senior Vice President & System Chief Medical Officer, emphasizes the importance of vaccination in maintaining community health: "Vaccination remains our most effective tool in preventing severe illness, hospitalizations, and complications associated with COVID-19, influenza, and RSV. We strongly urge everyone eligible to get vaccinated this season."

 

Updated COVID-19 Vaccines

 

With recent FDA approval, updated COVID-19 vaccines are becoming available at vaccination providers across our communities. These vaccines have been specifically designed to enhance protection against the evolving virus during the upcoming season. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all individuals aged 6 months and older receive a seasonal COVID-19 vaccine.

 

"Staying up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations is crucial," Dr. Walters adds. "These updated vaccines are tailored to the latest strains, ensuring that you have the best possible protection as we enter the peak respiratory illness season."

 

Influenza Vaccination

 

For the 2024-2025 influenza season, trivalent vaccines will be used, tailored to address the strains expected to circulate this year. The CDC advises everyone aged 6 months and older to get their annual flu shot to reduce the risk of severe illness and complications.

 

"Influenza can be just as dangerous as COVID-19, particularly for vulnerable populations," says Dr. Walters. "Annual flu vaccination is essential to keeping our communities healthy and reducing the burden on our health care system."

 

RSV Protection for Vulnerable Populations

 

In response to increasing awareness and the need for protection against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), the CDC has expanded its vaccination recommendations. These include:

• Pregnant Women: To help protect newborns, pregnant women are encouraged to receive the RSV vaccine.
• Older Adults: Individuals aged 75 and older, as well as those aged 60-74 with heightened risk factors for severe RSV disease, should be vaccinated.
• Infants: RSV immunization with monoclonal antibodies is recommended for the youngest members of our community, including:
  • Infants younger than 8 months, particularly those born just before or during the RSV season.
  • Infants aged 8-19 months who are at increased risk for severe RSV disease and are entering their second RSV season.

 

"RSV poses a significant risk to both the very young and the elderly," Dr. Walters notes. "We are committed to ensuring that these vulnerable populations have access to the necessary vaccinations to stay protected this season."

 

For more reliable and up-to-date information about COVID-19, influenza, and RSV vaccinations, the public is encouraged to visit trusted resources such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website or consult with their health care provider. Staying informed and following the latest guidelines is essential in safeguarding your health and the health of your loved ones during the respiratory illness season.

 

To schedule a vaccine appointment, contact your Aspirus primary care clinic. To find a provider, visit aspirus.org.

 

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