As the temperatures begin to drop in Mississippi, healthcare officials are encouraging folks to get updated vaccinations ahead of the annual respiratory virus season.
The rates of respiratory viruses such as influenza, RSV, and COVID-19 tend to increase during the fall and winter months as more people gather indoors.
All individuals 6 months of age and older are recommended to get updated flu and COVID-19 vaccines each season.
According to the Mississippi State Department of Health, the risk of severe illness from viruses was cut nearly by half in fall 2023. More than 98% of the U.S. population now has some protective immunity against COVID-19.
Protection against RSV is recommended for babies and older adults. The first immunization against RSV for older adults, pregnant women, and young children became available last fall.
Vaccinations are currently available through primary care physicians, clinics, and pharmacies around the state. Healthcare providers can determine the number and type of doses for your age to provide the best protection.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released the following updated recommendations to bring a unified approach to addressing risks from a range of respiratory viral illnesses:
- Staying up to date with vaccinations to protect against serious illness, hospitalization, and death. This includes flu, COVID-19, and RSV if eligible.
- Practicing good hygiene by covering coughs and sneezes, washing or sanitizing hands often, and cleaning frequently touched surfaces.
- Taking steps for cleaner air, such as bringing in more fresh outside air, purifying indoor air, or gathering outdoors.
