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Colder weather brings seasonal changes and often increases the number of influenza and COVID-19 cases. The viruses that cause COVID-19 and influenza continue to change and infect thousands of people each year, with older adults most at risk. Vaccines are being updated to provide protection against viruses currently circulating in the community.
“Vaccines are the best way to prevent severe illness from influenza and COVID-19,” said Dr. Nirav D. Shah, principal deputy director at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “People who get influenza or COVID-19 after getting vaccinated are much less likely to get seriously ill or end up in the hospital than people who don’t get vaccinated.”
Here is the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ “Risk Less. Do More” public education campaign.
Which older adults should get vaccinated? The CDC says everyone 6 months of age and older should receive the latest 2024-2025 COVID-19 and influenza vaccines. Adults 65 and older are at the highest risk of getting sick or having to go to the hospital from the infection. These vaccines are important for older adults who live in nursing homes and other places where many people live together, where the virus can spread easily.
When should older adults get vaccinated? The best time to get the flu and COVID-19 vaccines is September and October. Even if this is not possible, getting vaccinated in the fall and late winter can reduce severe symptoms. It is not recommended to receive these vaccines too early, given that immunity may begin to wane, just as respiratory viruses typically reach their peak.
Can older adults get the influenza and COVID-19 vaccines together? It is safe for older adults to receive both the influenza and COVID-19 vaccines at the same time. It’s also easy for most people to get them during the same visit. It is recommended that you receive the vaccine in different arms.
Why should older adults get vaccinated? Vaccines are the best way to protect against serious illness and death. Older people are at increased risk of serious illness. As people age, their immune systems tend to weaken, and older people are more likely to have existing health problems that can increase their risk. Most people hospitalized with influenza or COVID-19 are older people, especially those who have not been vaccinated. Last year, more than 95% of adults who went to the hospital with COVID-19 did not receive the latest vaccine.
What should people who support seniors’ health care decisions know? Influenza and COVID-19 vaccines reduce the risk of serious illness and are available to people who like them. It helps you get more done. However, many people do not know the benefits of these vaccines. That’s why it’s important to talk with your elderly family members about getting this season’s flu and COVID-19 vaccinations.
Talk to your doctor about the latest flu and COVID-19 vaccines and treatments. For more information, visit www.cdc.gov/RiskLessDoMore.
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Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
