This winter, in addition to the COVID-19 and flu vaccines, FDA-approved RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) immunizations are now available for the first time. With this new vaccine, you can have the strongest protection yet to fight the viruses responsible for the majority of fall and winter hospitalizations — flu, COVID-19 and RSV.
Like last year, RSV cases are on the rise — causing lower respiratory tract disease, and overwhelming doctors’ offices and hospitals with infants, at-risk patients and older adults. It leads to an estimated 60,000 to 160,000 hospitalizations and 6,000 to 10,000 deaths annually among adults ages 65 years and older. For kids under 5, RSV causes approximately 58,000 to 80,000 hospitalizations and 100 to 300 deaths.
The newly approved RSV immunizations, like the vaccines for COVID-19 and flu, are safe and work to prevent more serious complications, hospitalizations, and deaths. The RSV immunization is recommended for people over 60 and for infants younger than 8 months, as well as those during 32 and 36 weeks of pregnancy.
We are also encouraging Americans, particularly older adults, to get their COVID-19 vaccine in addition to their annual flu shot.
HHS is working to remind Americans about vaccines’ benefits but also about their accessibility and affordability. Through our work to get more Americans their immunizations, ongoing work with state and local health providers, and the resources we offer for those in need, we are committed to being a partner for a healthy winter.
Getting vaccinated is usually as simple as a short car ride or walking a few blocks. 91% of Americans 12 years and older can access the COVID-19 vaccine within five miles of where they live.
We recognize that cost may be another significant barrier and that’s why this administration is has made vaccines more affordable for millions. The CDC’s Bridge Access Program officially launched this fall, providing continued free coverage for an estimated 25 million to 30 million adults who would have otherwise lost access to affordable COVID-19 vaccines now that the distribution of vaccines has transitioned to the commercial market.
Ensuring kids have access to affordable protection is also essential. The COVID-19, flu and RSV immunizations for children are all also included in the Vaccines for Children program — a federally funded program that provides vaccines at no cost to children who might not otherwise be vaccinated because of inability to pay.
HHS’ commitment to vaccine access and affordability has made the COVID-19 and flu vaccines readily available and their use has helped significantly reduce severe outcomes for tens of millions. Now, with the immunizations for RSV, we all have another opportunity to be better protected.
However, we recognize there is vaccine fatigue out there. The pandemic has taken a toll on us in many ways. Most Americans know that vaccines save lives and reduce the burden on our health system, yet despite this, we have seen flu immunization totals dip slightly in recent years.
But now is not the time to allow our resilience to weaken. With the new immunizations in the mix, take charge and talk to your health care provider or schedule an appointment at your pharmacy. You can also go to vaccines.gov to find a flu or COVID-19 vaccine near you.
Get vaccinated this winter and receive the gift of peace of mind knowing that you have protected yourself and your loved ones from serious illness.
Melissa A. Herd currently serves as both the Acting Regional Director & Executive Officer of HHS Region 3. Melissa’s focus has been as an advocate for underserved populations as it relates to health insurance coverage, access to care, and successful health outcomes.
