In this episode, NFID experts discuss updated recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to help protect against COVID-19, influenza (flu), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and pneumococcal disease, in preparation for the upcoming respiratory season.
Key highlights:
- COVID-19:
- Everyone age 6 months and older should get the most recent vaccine if not already vaccinated since September 2023
- Adults age 65 years and older and immunocompromised individuals may need additional doses
- New vaccines focusing on Omicron variants are expected in late summer/early fall
- Influenza (Flu):
- Everyone age 6 months and older should get an annual flu vaccination with an age-appropriate vaccine
- High-dose, adjuvanted, or recombinant vaccines are preferred for those age 65 years and older
- New recommendation: High-dose or adjuvanted vaccines for organ transplant recipients age 18-64 years
- Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV):
- Updated recommendations for older adults: Single dose for adults age 75 years and older and those age 60-74 years with risk factors
- RSV vaccine is recommended for pregnant women (32-36 weeks) to protect infants via maternal immunization
- Infants born to unvaccinated mothers should receive monoclonal antibody nirsevimab
- Pneumococcal Disease:
- Pneumococcal bacteria are a common cause of pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections
- Adults age 65 years and older and those with chronic health conditions should receive pneumococcal vaccination
- New vaccine PCV21 tailored for strains causing disease in adults
- General Guidance:
- Everyone age 6 months and older needs an updated COVID-19 and flu vaccine this fall/winter
- High-risk individuals should also discuss RSV vaccination with a trusted healthcare professional
If you have a burning question for an NFID expert, please submit it via the online form. Your question may show up in a future episode of Contagious Chronicles.
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