Respiratory virus season is on its way and health officials say it’s time to schedule seasonal vaccines for flu and COVID-19.
Arizona has reported more than 49,000 cases of flu and more than 20,000 cases of COVID-19 over the last year, according to the Arizona Department of Health Services.
But annual updated vaccines for flu and COVID-19 are beneficial for almost everyone, said Shane Brady, deputy assistant director of preparedness with the Arizona Department of Health Services.
“For flu and COVID in particular, it really does reduce your risk for severe disease. So even if you do end up getting sick, you’re less likely to get severely ill,” Brady said.
Brady said vaccination also slows the spread of these contagious diseases, which helps prevent vulnerable people from being exposed.
“It also can help protect those around you,” Brady said.
It can take your body about two weeks to build up immunity after a flu or COVID-19 shot. So medical experts recommend getting those vaccines before the end of October so that you’re protected well ahead of the peak of respiratory virus season, which is typically in December or January.
Leading U.S. medical organizations recommend annual updated flu shots for everyone 6 months and older. Annual updated COVID-19 shots are recommended for children 6 to 23 months, children 2 to 18 with certain risks or if desired, and all adults over 19. A one-time vaccine for RSV is also recommended for infants under 8 months, some pregnant women, adults 50 to 74 at increased risk, and all adults over 75.
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