As the colder months approach, the American Medical Association (AMA) is urging widespread vaccination against flu and other respiratory viruses. The organization recommends that everyone aged six months and older, except in rare cases, receive an annual flu shot. According to the AMA, October is considered an optimal time for vaccination because it gives the body enough time to build immunity before viruses become prevalent in communities.
“Last year’s flu season was one of the worst in the U.S. in 15 years, and the statistics speak volumes. Fewer than half of all Americans received a flu vaccine last year, resulting in more than 620,000 hospitalizations and 27,000 deaths related to flu illness,” said AMA President Bobby Mukkamala, MD. “We cannot afford to repeat this pattern. We strongly urge everyone 6 months and older to get a flu vaccine as soon as possible, ideally before the end of October, to protect themselves, their loved ones, and their communities from severe complications, hospitalization, and death.”
The AMA emphasizes that vaccination remains the most effective protection against respiratory viruses and their complications. Alongside influenza, other viruses such as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and SARS-CoV-2 are expected to circulate again this year.
The association advises all adults aged 75 or older to get vaccinated against RSV. Adults between ages 50 and 74 with certain medical conditions that increase risk for severe RSV should also consider vaccination. Since RSV vaccines are not required annually, those who have already received them do not need another dose at this time. Families are encouraged to review options for protecting infants during RSV season; these include maternal vaccination during pregnancy or administration of monoclonal antibodies for infants and young children.
For COVID-19 vaccinations, anyone six months or older who wishes to receive a vaccine should be able to access one. Populations at higher risk for severe COVID-19 outcomes include adults over age 65, people with underlying health conditions, pregnant patients, and children between six and twenty-three months old. The AMA encourages individuals to consult with healthcare professionals about which vaccines may be appropriate for them.
In addition to vaccination efforts, health officials recommend precautions such as covering coughs and sneezes, frequent handwashing, improving indoor air quality indoors when possible, and staying home when ill as ways to reduce transmission of respiratory illnesses.
The AMA states its ongoing commitment to supporting immunization based on scientific evidence in order to prevent serious disease and protect public health. The organization continues outreach aimed at increasing public confidence in vaccines so that vaccine-preventable diseases do not reemerge.
