It’s Time to Get Your Fall/Winter Vaccinations to Fight Respiratory Viruses

Jackson, Miss. — As we approach what is historically the respiratory virus season, the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) encourages everyone to get appropriate updated vaccinations to avoid severe outcomes including hospitalization and death.

The rates of respiratory viruses such as influenza, RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) and COVID tend to increase during the fall and winter months as more people gather indoors. In Mississippi, typical influenza season usually peaks anywhere from December through March, but influenza activity can occur earlier or later, so it is important to receive your flu vaccine prior to peak influenza activity.

Everyone 6 months of age and older is recommended to get updated flu and COVID vaccines each season. Protection against RSV is recommended for babies and older adults.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that during the 2023-2024 season, flu vaccinations prevented 9.8 million flu-related illnesses, 4.8 million medical visits, 120,000 hospitalizations and 7,900 deaths.

MSDH launched the “Protect & Prepare: A Grandparent's Guide” campaign in August to educate all caregivers of infants of the importance of staying up to date on vaccinations, including pertussis (whooping cough), because they can unknowingly pass viruses onto infants, who are more susceptible to health complications including death.

The CDC recommendations bring a unified approach to a range of respiratory viral illnesses:

• Staying up to date with vaccinations including 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.

Vaccinations are currently available through primary care physicians, clinics and pharmacies around the state. Your healthcare provider can determine the number and type of doses for your age to provide the best protection. MSDH County Health Departments offer free vaccinations for those whose insurance does not cover it. Call (855) 767-0710 for more information or to schedule an appointment.