(Family characteristics) Respiratory infections such as influenza, COVID-19, and RSV may increase rapidly from fall to winter. People who are vaccinated reduce their risk of becoming seriously ill and needing medical care if they become infected. About 70% of U.S. adults say they will probably or definitely get a flu shot, and more than 50% say they will probably or definitely get the latest COVID-19 vaccine. Many people are ready to receive this season’s vaccine, but some may still have questions.
“It’s normal for people to have questions about vaccines,” said Peter Marks, MD, director of the Food and Drug Administration’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, which oversees and reviews vaccine clinical trials. “It is important that everyone knows that all vaccines undergo extensive testing before approval and are closely monitored once approved to identify any safety concerns that can be quickly addressed. Hundreds of thousands of volunteers participated in respiratory vaccine trials, and the results show that these vaccines are safe and effective in preventing severe illness caused by influenza, COVID-19, and RSV. It shows that there is.”
Here are some ways to discuss the importance of vaccines this season with family and friends who are unsure whether to get vaccinated.
Please listen. When talking about vaccination, it’s important to make others feel heard. There are many reasons why people have questions and concerns about vaccines and the healthcare system in general. Listen to their thoughts and try not to judge. They want to know that their thoughts and feelings matter.
Let’s focus on the facts. Instead of denouncing myths about vaccines, let’s focus on the truth about vaccines. When you focus on mythology, it can become a topic of conversation. Instead, talk about the benefits of vaccines. For example, we can say that the vaccine reduces the risk of hospitalization due to influenza or COVID-19 by about half.
Ask if they need help getting vaccinated. In some cases, you may need someone else’s help finding, scheduling, and administering vaccinations. Vaccines.gov can help you find vaccination sites. You may also need help finding childcare or finding out if you can take time off from work. Giving your child a ride or accompanying them can also be helpful, especially if the nearest vaccination site is far away. If English is not your first language, offer to help schedule your appointment and provide a medical interpreter if needed. When vaccination becomes easier, people are more likely to take this important step to protect their health.
Having open, honest and supportive conversations about vaccines with family and friends can make a big difference. For more information, visit cdc.gov/RiskLessDoMore or ask your doctor.
Vaccines for influenza, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus can help people reduce their risk of serious illness and allow them to do more of the things they enjoy
Vaccines for this season are now available. Everyone over 6 months of age should receive up-to-date influenza and COVID-19 vaccines. People over 75 or over 60 with certain health conditions, such as heart disease, lung disease, obesity, or diabetes, should get the RSV vaccine if they haven’t had it before.
The risk of severe respiratory illness remains high for certain people. These include adults age 65 and older, residents of long-term care facilities, people who are pregnant, people with certain health conditions, and people who live in rural areas. People from some racial and ethnic groups are also at increased risk, such as blacks and Hispanics. People who are not up to date on influenza, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines can reduce their risk by getting the 2024-2025 vaccine as soon as possible.
To get started, visit Vaccines.gov.
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