Health department warns respiratory illness season is on its way

As the weather cools and more activities move indoors, respiratory illness season is fast approaching. According to an Oneida County Health Department press release, respiratory illness season refers to a period of time where annually, there is typically an increase in respiratory illnesses.

This uptick includes illnesses like influenza, COVID, RSV, pneumonia and others. Symptoms vary, but people may experience a cough, fever, chest tightness, runny nose and more.

Who should get vaccinated during respiratory illness season?

The best way you can protect yourself and especially those who may be immunocompromised is stay up to date with your vaccinations, the release states. 

This is especially important for individuals who are moderately or severely immunocompromised, already have a weakened immune system and have an increased risk of illness and hospitalization.

What vaccinations are available and should I be current on?

• Influenza vaccine 

(recommended annually)

• Adults 19 years and older

• Children 6 months-18 years

• COVID-19 vaccine 

(More information will be coming on the new recommendations once the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) meets this September 2023)

• RSV vaccine is recommended for:

• Adults ages 60 and older,

• All infants born shortly before and during the RSV season 

• Children less than 8 months old at the start of RSV season 

• Children between the ages of 8 months and 19 months

• Severe immunocompromised or have pre-existing lung conditions 

• American Indian and Alaska Native populations.

 Pneumonia vaccine is recommended for:

• Adults 65 years and older

• Children 2 years and younger

When is the best time to get vaccinated?

It is recommended that you get vaccinated during the fall months September-October. However, you can still get vaccinated throughout the season as long as viruses are circulating, the release states.

Talk with your healthcare provider to be sure you are up to date with all recommended vaccinations for you. For more information on immunization schedules, visit https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules.

For more information on respiratory illnesses, visit https://www.cdc.gov/flu https://www.cdc.gov/rsv https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus https://www.cdc.gov/pneumonia.

The Oneida County Health Department will be offering vaccines during this respiratory illness season. Watch the department website and Facebook page for upcoming vaccine clinic schedules.