Introduction

As the crispness of fall settles in, health officials are reminding everyone that it's time to get their flu and COVID-19 vaccines updated. Particularly for older adults, there’s an additional risk from RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), making this the perfect moment to double down on vaccinations.

Can I Get Vaccinated Together?

You might be wondering, "Can I really get my flu and COVID-19 shots at the same time?" Absolutely! But don’t just call them boosters; this year’s vaccines are tailored to counter the latest circulating strains. Unlike previous versions, these vaccines combat the mutations that both the flu and coronavirus excel at creating to dodge our immune defenses.

Dr. Mandy Cohen, the director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), emphasized that “right now is the best time” for these crucial vaccinations. As she got her flu shot recently, she reiterated that vaccinating is “the single most effective thing you can do to protect yourself, your family, and your community.” While these vaccines won't offer 100% protection against infections, they significantly reduce the chances of severe illness, hospitalization, and even death.

Vaccine Uptake Challenges

However, there’s a challenge: vaccine uptake remains low. Last year, only 45% of adults were vaccinated against the flu, and a mere 23% received a COVID-19 shot. With the ongoing threat posed by COVID-19, which claimed more lives than the flu last year, we need to reconsider our reluctance. Dr. Michael Knight from George Washington University aptly pointed out, “Why not get a vaccine that’s going to help you reduce that risk?”

Who Should Get Vaccinated?

The CDC has expanded its recommendations: everyone aged 6 months and older should get both the updated COVID-19 and the annual flu vaccines. If you’ve recently recovered from COVID-19, you might consider holding off for two to three months, but don't skip getting vaccinated—a winter surge is anticipated.

Vulnerable populations include the elderly, immunocompromised individuals, and those with lung or heart conditions. Young children are particularly at risk, as evidenced by the 199 flu-related deaths of children last year. Additionally, pregnant women should also prioritize vaccinations to protect both themselves and their newborns.

What’s New with COVID-19 Vaccines?

This year’s COVID-19 vaccines are a significant step up. The Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are specifically designed to combat a new variant, KP.2, while the Novavax vaccine targets a related strain, JN.1. These updated formulations promise robust cross-protection against other currently circulating subtypes. The mRNA vaccines are safe for adults and children as young as 6 months, while the Novavax vaccine, a more traditional protein-based shot, is available for those 12 and older.

Flu Vaccine Options

For those aged 65 and older, high-dose vaccines or those with added immune boosters are available. However, if they’re hard to find, standard flu shots are a solid alternative. For those who prefer not to get a needle, the FluMist nasal spray will be accessible for ages 2 to 49 at clinics and pharmacies, with plans for at-home use next year.

This year's flu vaccines will protect against two Type A strains and one Type B strain, given that a previously common Type B strain ceased to circulate a few years back.

RSV and Its Risk

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) typically resembles a minor cold for most; yet, it can cause severe illness in children under 5, seniors, and those with certain health conditions. The CDC recommends RSV vaccination for everyone aged 75 and older and for individuals between 60 and 74 at increased risk. This vaccine is a one-time shot, but shockingly, only 24% of seniors got it last year.

Costs and Accessibility

Good news! Most vaccines should be available at no cost under Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance plans, assuming you visit an in-network provider. While a program that provided free COVID-19 vaccines to uninsured individuals has ended, the CDC is allocating $62 million to facilitate access through local health departments. So, check with your health department about options; availability will be expanding in many areas soon.

Conclusion

In short, it’s crucial to take your health into your own hands this fall. Visit vaccines.gov for local pharmacy vaccine availability, and don’t let this opportunity pass you by. Protect yourself and your loved ones today!