Respiratory virus season is just around the corner, and now is the time to protect yourself and those around you. It is recommended that everyone aged 6 months and older get vaccinated, because it is your best protection against an influenza or COVID-19 infection.

September and October are the best months to get vaccinated because respiratory virus activity typically peaks between January and February, and the vaccines’ protection may decrease over time. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends vaccination by October 31st, but if you miss this window, you can still get vaccinated throughout the respiratory virus season.

Getting your influenza and COVID-19 vaccines annually is important because the viruses that cause these illnesses are constantly changing. Scientists update the vaccines to match the latest versions of the virus, so your body can recognize and fight them off more effectively. When you get vaccinated, it trains your immune system to defend against infection. This means you’re less likely to get sick, and if you do, your symptoms will likely be milder and you can recover faster.

Despite initial confusion regarding its availability, all Wisconsinites aged 6 months and older are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine thanks to a statewide standing order from the WI Department of Health Services. This order allows qualified healthcare personnel to administer the vaccine to eligible individuals without a patient-specific prescription. Getting vaccinated helps keep everyone safe, especially kids, older adults, and people with chronic health conditions who are at higher risk for severe infection. It is also important to recognize that even healthy individuals can get seriously ill and spread it to others. While most people recover at home, severe infections can be life-threatening, and getting vaccinated is a simple, proven way to protect yourself and your community. The 2024-25 influenza season was particularly severe throughout the United States, marking the worst since 2017-2018. Nationally, it was the deadliest influenza season for children in recent history (excluding pandemic years), fortunately, no pediatric deaths were reported in Green County.

In addition to vaccination, there are simple steps you can take to stay healthy this season: wash your hands frequently with soap and water, stay home if you’re feeling sick, and cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow.

Respiratory viruses are serious but preventable. By getting vaccinated and practicing good hygiene, we can protect our families and communities. Call your primary care provider or pharmacy today to schedule your vaccine appointment.

— Ellie Lombardo is the Public Health Educator for the Green County Public Health Department and can be reached at elombardo@greencountywi.org or 608-328-9509.