As the golden season of autumn approaches, it’s time to start thinking about more than just pumpkin spice lattes and cozy sweaters—it’s also time to consider fall vaccinations. With the flu season around the corner and other respiratory illnesses like RSV and COVID-19 still circulating, getting vaccinated is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Medical Director of Keystone Infectious Diseases, Dr. Raghavendra Tirupathi, and medical students studying under him, Afnan Amar Nishad, K. Poshitha Srivarshini, Pinank Bathvar and Samhitha Madumala Gurthy explain what you should know about fall vaccinations in today’s Take Care article.
The fall season is a prime time to schedule vaccinations, particularly for those most vulnerable, including young children, older adults and individuals with chronic health conditions. From the annual flu shot to newer vaccines targeting RSV and COVID-19 boosters, fall vaccinations play a key role in keeping communitieshealthy and reducing the burden on healthcare systems. Staying up to date with your vaccinations ensures you’re well-prepared to face the cooler months ahead.
SEASONAL INFLUENZA/FLU VACCINE
The flu vaccine covers three strains of seasonal flu and is readily available at your nearby pharmacies and at your primary care provider’s office. Protection wanes throughout the season, therefore October is the one of the best times to get vaccinated:
- According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in 2024 the flu shot is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older with rare exceptions.
- Individuals who are at higher risk of developing serious flu complications are especially encouraged to get vaccinated. This includes young children, pregnant individuals, adults aged 65 and older and those with chronic health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease.
- Additionally, people living in long-term care facilities or nursing homes should receive the vaccine. The CDC emphasizes that healthcare workers, caregivers and anyone in close contact with individuals at high risk for severe flu should get vaccinated to protect those around them.
- The flu vaccine is particularly important for immunocompromised individuals and those who might be more susceptible to complications from the flu virus.
MOST COMMON MYTHS ABOUT THE FLU SHOT
- Influenza is not serious, so I don’t need the vaccine
Even healthy people can get the flu, but especially people whose immune systems are vulnerable. Most people will recover within a few weeks, but some can develop complications including sinus and ear infections, pneumonia and heart or brain inflammations.
- The flu shot can give you the flu
The flu shot is made from inactivated (killed) viruses or from a single protein from the virus, which cannot cause the flu. Some people may experience mild side effects, such as a low-grade fever or muscle aches, but these are not the flu and usually resolve quickly.
- I’m healthy, so I don’t need the flu shot
Even healthy people can get the flu and suffer severe complications. The flu shot protects not only the individual but also vulnerable populations like the elderly, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems.
- The flu shot doesn’t work
While the flu shot is not 100% effective, it significantly reduces the risk of getting the flu and lessens the severity of symptoms if you do get sick. It also reduces the likelihood of serious complications, hospitalization and death.
This table reflects CDC guidelines and identifies groups at increased risk for flu-related complications or those who could benefit most from vaccination.
| Category | Who Should Get the Flu Shot |
| General Population | Everyone 6 months and older should get an annual flu shot. |
| Pregnant Women | All women who are pregnant or might become pregnant during the flu season, regardless of trimester. |
| Young Children | Children 6 months to 5 years, with special emphasis on children under 2 years who are at higher risk for complications. |
| Older Adults | Adults aged 65 and older, particularly those with chronic health conditions or living in long-term care facilities. |
| People with Chronic Health Conditions | Individuals with conditions like asthma, diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, or any other chronic illness that weakens the immune system. |
| Healthcare Workers | Healthcare personnel who come into contact with patients, to protect both themselves and their patients. |
| Caregivers and Household Contacts | Individuals who live with or care for people at high risk of complications from the flu (e.g., caregivers of infants under 6 months, elderly adults, or people with chronic illnesses). |
| Residents of Nursing Homes or Long-Term Care Facilities | Individuals residing in nursing homes or long-term care facilities, as they are at higher risk for flu-related complications. |
| Immunocompromised Individuals | People with weakened immune systems due to conditions like HIV/AIDS, cancer treatments, or medications that suppress the immune system. |
| Obese Individuals | Adults with a BMI of 40 or higher, as obesity increases the risk of flu complications. |
| American Indians and Alaska Natives | This population is at higher risk for flu complications and should receive the flu shot annually. |
RESPIRATORY SYNCYTIAL VIRUS VACCINE
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can infect anyone. But premature babies and young infants, as well as older adults with heart or lung disease or a weakened immune system are at higher risk of severe infection. In the U.S., the RSV season typically is November through March, but it varies in Florida, Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Guam and other U.S. Pacific Island territories.
PROTECTION FOR INFANTS AND HIGH-RISK YOUNG CHILDREN
There are two main options to help prevent young infants from getting severe RSV. One is an antibody product (nirsevimab) given to the infant. The other is an RSV vaccine for pregnant women to help protect their baby from birth through 6 months of age. Both are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and you can discuss the best option for you with your healthcare provider.
One dose of nirsevimab is recommended for infants younger than 8 months of age who were born shortly before or are entering their first RSV season (typically fall through spring). One dose of nirsevimab is recommended for infants and children aged 8–19 months who are at increased risk for severe RSV and are entering their second RSV season. A different monoclonal antibody, palivizumab, is limited to children aged 24 months and younger with certain conditions that place them at high risk for severe RSV disease. But palivizumab requires monthly shots given during the RSV season, while nirsevimab is only one shot. Palivizumab is not recommended for healthy children or adults.
VACCINE FOR PREGNANT WOMEN
The FDA approved an RSV vaccine called Abrysvo for pregnant women to prevent RSV in infants from birth through 6 months of age. In the U.S., a single-dose shot of Abrysvo can be given from 32 weeks through 36 weeks of pregnancy during September through January.
VACCINE FOR OLDER ADULTS
Older adults have weaker immune systems, especially those with ongoing conditions such as heart or lung disease. To help prevent RSV infection, the FDA approved RSV vaccines for adults aged 60 and older. Two vaccines are available for this age group: Abrysvo and Arexvy.
The CDC does not recommend one over the other and both are single-dose vaccines. The CDC recommends that adults 60 and older talk with their healthcare professional about getting an RSV vaccine, especially if they’re at higher risk of getting severe RSV.
LIFESTYLE HABITS FOR THE PREVENTION OF RSV INFECTION
These lifestyle habits can help prevent the spread of this infection:
- Wash your hands often. Teach your children the importance of handwashing.
- Avoid exposure. Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. Limit your baby’s contact with people who have fevers or colds.
- Keep things clean. Make sure kitchen and bathroom countertops, doorknobs and handles are clean.
- Don’t share drinking glasses with others. Use your own glass or disposable cups when you or someone else is sick.
- Don’t smoke. Babies who are exposed to tobacco smoke have a higher risk of getting RSV and potentially more severe symptoms. If you do smoke, never do so inside the house or car.
- Wash toys regularly. Do this especially when your child or a playmate is sick.
This table shows who should get the RSV vaccine, according to guidelines.
| Population | Recommendation | Details |
| Adults Ages 60 and Older | RSV Vaccine | -Recommended for everyone 75+ and for those 60-74 at increased risk (e.g., chronic heart/lung disease, chronic medical conditions, nursing home residents). -Not an annual vaccine (no need for yearly dose). -Best time to vaccinate: late summer and early fall, before RSV season. |
| Infants and Young Children | Prevention of Severe RSV | -Maternal RSV vaccination or infant immunization with RSV monoclonal antibodies (most infants will not need both). |
| Pregnant People | Maternal RSV Vaccine | -1 dose during weeks 32-36 of pregnancy (administered September through January). -Pfizer Abrysvo is the only RSV vaccine recommended during pregnancy. |
| Infants (< 8 months) | Nirsevimab (RSV Monoclonal Antibodies) | -1 dose for infants younger than 8 months entering their first RSV season (fall through spring). |
| Infants/Children (8–19 months) | Nirsevimab | -1 dose for infants/children 8–19 months at increased risk of severe RSV disease entering their second RSV season. |
| Children (< 24 months) | Palivizumab (Monoclonal Antibody) | -For children 24 months and younger with high-risk conditions for severe RSV. -Given once a month during RSV season. -Follow American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines for use. |
COVID-19 VACCINATION
As we navigate through the ever-evolving landscape of the COVID-19 pandemic, vaccination remains our most effective tool to combat the virus, reduce transmission and protect vulnerable populations. The CDC has released updated guidelines for the 2024–2025 COVID-19 vaccination season, emphasizing the importance of staying up to date with vaccinations, especially for high-risk groups. Here’s what you need to know about the latest recommendations and the critical role vaccines play in safeguarding public health.
WHO SHOULD GET VACCINATED?
The CDC and Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommends COVID-19 vaccination for all individuals aged 6 months and older, with specific guidelines for various groups:
- Children (6 months – 4 years): Vaccination is recommended, with a tailored dosing schedule appropriate for younger children.
- Pregnant and breastfeeding individuals: Vaccination is strongly recommended, as pregnancy increases the risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes.
- Immunocompromised individuals: Vaccination is critical for those with weakened immune systems, who may also require additional booster doses to maintain immunity.
- People with chronic illnesses: Those with underlying conditions such as diabetes or heart disease face a higher risk of severe illness and are strongly encouraged to receive the vaccine.
- Healthcare and frontline workers: Most employers require or recommend vaccination for healthcare workers due to their high-exposure risk.
- Individuals with a history of COVID-19: Even those who have had COVID-19 are advised to get vaccinated, as natural immunity can wane over time.
- History of myocarditis/pericarditis: While some concerns have been raised for individuals with a history of these conditions, consultation with healthcare providers is advised to assess risk.
- People 6 months and older who are moderately or severely immunocompromised: At least one dose of the 2024–2025 vaccine is recommended, with potential additional doses based on individual vaccination history and clinical recommendations. Unvaccinated individuals in this group may need a 3-dose series.
- People who are not at higher risk:
- Ages 6 months to 4 years: An initial multi-dose vaccination series is recommended to ensure protection.
- Ages 5 and older: One dose of the 2024–2025 COVID-19 vaccine (Moderna, Pfizer-BioNTech or Novavax) is sufficient to remain up to date.
BOOSTER SHOTS: WHO NEEDS THEM?
For elderly adults and those with immunocompromised conditions, booster shots are crucial to maintaining protection. Additional doses may be administered at least two months after the last vaccination, depending on a person’s health status and vaccine history. The need for further boosters will be guided by healthcare providers, taking into consideration personal circumstances and the latest data on vaccine efficacy.
PUBLIC HEALTH IMPACT: THE IMPORTANCE OF VACCINATION
The 2024–2025 COVID-19 vaccines are critical in reducing the spread of the virus, especially as variants continue to emerge. Vaccination not only protects individuals from severe illness but also contributes to broader public health efforts by fostering herd immunity. This is especially vital for protecting those who are most vulnerable, including the elderly, immunocompromised individuals and healthcare workers on the frontlines.
This table shows who should get the COVID vaccine, according to guidelines.
| Demographic/Condition | Indications for Vaccine | Notes |
| Age (≥6 months) | Recommended for all | Type of vaccine may vary by age group |
| Pregnant/Breastfeeding | Strongly recommended | Increased risk of severe COVID-19 |
| Immunocompromised | Recommended (may need boosters) | Additional doses may be needed |
| Chronic Illness (e.g., diabetes, heart disease) | Strongly recommended | Higher risk of severe disease |
| Healthcare/Frontline Workers | Required/recommended by most employers | High exposure risk |
| Previous COVID-19 Infection | Recommended | Natural immunity wanes over time |
| Children (6 months – 4 years) | Recommended | Different dosing schedule |
| History of Myocarditis/Pericarditis | Caution depending on age group | Consult with a specialist |
CONCLUSION: STAY PROTECTED, STAY INFORMED
As we move into another season of managing COVID-19, it’s more important than ever to stay informed and protect ourselves and our communities through vaccination. Whether you’re due for your first dose, a booster, or an additional dose due to immunocompromised conditions, the 2024–2025 COVID-19 vaccine guidelines ensure that everyone has the opportunity to stay protected against severe illness, hospitalization and death. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best vaccination plan for you and your family. Stay safe, get vaccinated, and help us continue to fight COVID-19.
This article contains general information only and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment or care by a qualified health care provider.
