Don't Delay! Protect Yourself Now: Get Your Flu and COVID-19 Vaccines Before the Holiday Rush!

As the holiday season approaches, health officials are reminding everyone that the window is still open for getting vaccinated against the flu and COVID-19. If you haven't yet gotten your shots, now is your chance to bolster your defenses before respiratory illnesses start to spread widely during travel and indoor gatherings.

While this fall has so far seen relatively mild virus activity, health experts warn that COVID-19 typically spikes during winter, particularly from Thanksgiving through January. This coincides with the onset of the flu season, which usually begins in late November or early December and can peak in early 2024. Vaccination is crucial, as it generally takes about two weeks for the body to build immunity following any shot, emphasizing the importance of acting now rather than waiting for a surge in cases.

You might be wondering if you can get both vaccines simultaneously. The answer is yes! Unlike typical boosters, which might deliver last year’s vaccine, the current versions of both the COVID-19 and flu vaccines have been specifically updated to combat newer variants that the viruses have developed to escape our immune systems. Vaccination provides significant protection against severe illness, hospitalization, and death.

Dr. Demetre Daskalakis from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes that while vaccines may not completely prevent infection, they can reduce the severity of symptoms. “I would rather have my grandmother have a sniffle than have to go to the emergency room on Thanksgiving,” he stated, underscoring the importance of vaccination for vulnerable populations.

Unfortunately, last year saw only 45% of adults getting flu shots and a mere 23% opting for COVID-19 vaccinations. Dr. Bruce A. Scott, president of the American Medical Association, recently encouraged vaccination as a straightforward but effective defense. It’s vital to remember that COVID-19 remains a serious health concern, having claimed more lives than the flu in the previous year.

Who Should Get Vaccinated?

The CDC recommends that almost everyone aged 6 months and older receive both the updated COVID-19 shot and the seasonal flu vaccine. If you recently contracted COVID-19, a two to three-month waiting period is suggested, but getting vaccinated afterward remains essential due to the anticipated winter surge.

Individuals at higher risk include older adults, those with weakened immune systems, and people with underlying health issues. It’s worth noting that last year, the CDC recorded 199 flu-related deaths among children.

Additionally, pregnant women are more susceptible to severe illness from both viruses, making vaccinations vital for their health and their newborn's protection.

What’s New with COVID-19 Vaccines?

This year's COVID-19 vaccines are adjusted to target a new viral strain not included in last fall’s shots. The Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are aimed at a variant called KP.2, while the Novavax vaccine focuses on its parent strain, JN.1. All of these options are expected to provide good cross-protection against circulating subtypes.

For those with concerns about traditional injections, the nasal spray FluMist is a viable option available for children and adults aged 2 to 49 at clinics and pharmacies. Moreover, current flu vaccines will protect against two Type A flu strains and one Type B strain after one Type B variant was phased out.

Don’t Overlook RSV!

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is another viral threat that can be particularly dangerous for young children and the elderly. The CDC recommends an RSV vaccination for individuals aged 75 and older and those 60-74 who are at heightened risk, highlighting the need for a one-time shot. Sadly, uptake has been low, with only 24% of seniors vaccinated last year.

Cost and Access to Vaccines

Most vaccines remain free under Medicare, Medicaid, and many private insurers, provided that you use an in-network provider. Although a federal program offering free COVID-19 vaccines for uninsured adults has ended, the CDC is investing millions in improving access through local health departments.

Before the holiday festivities begin, check your local pharmacies and health departments to schedule your vaccinations. Stay one step ahead of the viruses this winter—your health matters!