LAFAYETTE COUNTY — As respiratory illnesses continue to spread, public health officials encourage the public to protect themselves and their family by getting a yearly flu and COVID-19 vaccine. Civilians can get both vaccines for as long as the diseases are spreading. 

This year, the CDC has also approved a single-dose RSV vaccine for adults over the age of 60. People aged 60 or older should talk with their doctor to see if the RSV vaccine is right for them. Vaccines are safe and effective and are the best way to protect against serious respiratory disease. It is never too late to get vaccinated. 

“When we get vaccinated, we protect ourselves and our loved ones from respiratory illnesses, reduce hospitalizations and death, and keep our communities safer,” said Julie Leibfried, Health Officer of Lafayette County Health Department. “By getting respiratory illness vaccines, you protect yourself and your community from serious disease.”  

Everyone ages 6 months and older is recommended to get a yearly flu and COVID-19 vaccine. Getting a flu and COVID-19 vaccine is especially important for people at higher risk for serious disease complications, including: 

●  People who are pregnant

●  Young children

●  People 65 years and older, especially those living in group settings

●  People with certain medical conditions, such as asthma or heart disease   

Everyone 60 and older is recommended to talk to their doctor about getting a yearly RSV vaccine. This approved RSV vaccine can protect older adults against serious RSV complications, especially those living in group settings. Parents of infants and children under two are also encouraged to talk with their child’s pediatrician about receiving one dose of nirsevimab, a monoclonal antibody, to prevent severe illness from RSV. 

Health care providers in Lafayette County are making sure that the public can still get vaccinated in a safe and convenient way. Contact a doctor’s office or local pharmacy to get a yearly flu vaccine and a yearly COVID-19 vaccine. Those over the age of 60 can also get an RSV vaccine. Check with individual health insurance plans about any costs associated with each vaccine. Those without insurance can contact the Lafayette County Health Department.  

Getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to stay healthy and prevent getting sick with respiratory illnesses like the flu, COVID-19, and RSV. It is never too late to get protection. The public can safely get a yearly flu vaccine, COVID-19 vaccine, and RSV vaccine (if 60 or older) this respiratory season. Call a doctor or other health care provider to make vaccine appointments. If the cost of the vaccine is a concern, a person or their children may be eligible for free vaccines at the Lafayette County Health Department.