Respiratory illness season approaches: Health experts encourage early prevention

Vaccination, hygiene and other preventive steps can help reduce the impact of flu, COVID-19 and RSV this fall and winter

Respiratory illnesses such as influenza, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) return to communities every fall and winter, contributing to missed school and work, disrupted family routines and increased health care visits. While every respiratory illness season is different, health experts say preparing before illnesses begin circulating widely can help reduce the risk of severe illness and complications.

 

As the respiratory illness season approaches, health care providers are encouraging individuals and families to take preventive steps now, including staying up to date on recommended vaccinations, practicing good hand hygiene and staying home when sick. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), annual flu vaccination is recommended for everyone 6 months and older, with rare exceptions, because influenza viruses change over time and vaccine formulations are updated to help protect against strains expected to circulate each season.

 

"Viruses change from year to year, which is why annual flu and COVID-19 vaccinations remain important," said Bill Johnston, MD, Aspirus Primary Care Provider. "Getting vaccinated in September or October gives your body time to build immunity before respiratory illnesses become more widespread in our communities."

 

Many people assume they can rely on a healthy immune system alone, but vaccination adds an extra layer of protection. While vaccines can’t totally prevent respiratory illness, medical experts note that vaccines can help reduce the severity of illness, lower the risk of hospitalization and decrease the likelihood of serious complications.

 

"Having a healthy immune system is a great start, but vaccines help strengthen those defenses," Johnston said. "Even if someone does become ill, vaccination can help minimize the severity of illness and reduce the chance of hospitalization."

 

Certain groups face a greater risk of serious illness during respiratory virus season. Older adults, infants and young children, people with weakened immune systems and individuals with chronic health conditions such as heart disease, lung disease or diabetes may be more likely to experience complications.

 

Johnston said protecting vulnerable community members requires a collective effort.

"There are some groups we especially want to protect, including newborns, older adults and people with weakened immune systems," Johnston said. "When eligible individuals get vaccinated, they help create a layer of protection around those who are most vulnerable."

 

In addition to recommended vaccinations, providers encourage families to practice routine preventive measures throughout the season. These include frequent handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, cleaning commonly touched surfaces and staying home when sick. Health experts say no single strategy is perfect, but combining multiple prevention measures can help reduce the spread of illness within households, schools, workplaces and communities.

 

"The combination of vaccination, good hand hygiene and thoughtful respiratory etiquette can make a meaningful difference," Johnston said. "Small actions help protect not only you and your family, but also the people around you."

 

As respiratory illness season begins, health professionals emphasize that prevention remains easier than recovering from serious illness. Taking steps now can help individuals and families stay healthier throughout the months ahead while helping reduce the impact of seasonal viruses across the community.

 

For more information about Aspirus primary care in your area, visit www.aspirus.org/primarycare.

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