COVID-19, Flu and RSV Vaccine Information

Latest COVID-19, Influenza, and RSV Vaccine Information and CDC recommendations

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The Milford Health Department encourages residents to get vaccinated against viral respiratory illnesses such as COVID-19, influenza (flu), and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). These illnesses are prevalent in the fall and winter and we are seeing a rise in reported cases. For the first time, vaccines for all three viruses are available. These vaccines are proven to be safe and effective. Learn about how you can take steps to reduce your risk of getting sick, and what vaccines are available to you.

For the latest Milford Health Department Vaccination Clinic information Click Here.

CDC Respiratory Illness Guidance and Recommendations Click Here. 

What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) is a disease caused by a virus named SARS-CoV-2. It can be very contagious and spreads quickly. COVID-19 most often causes respiratory symptoms that can feel much like a cold, the flu, or pneumonia. COVID-19 may attack more than your lungs and respiratory system. Other parts of your body may also be affected by the disease. Most people with COVID-19 have mild symptoms, but some people become severely ill.

COVID-19 Vaccine Recommendations

  • CDC recommends the 2023–2024 updated COVID-19 vaccines: Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, or Novavax, to protect against serious illness from COVID-19.
  • Everyone aged 5 years and older should get 1 dose of an updated COVID-19 vaccine to protect against serious illness from COVID-19.
  • Children aged 6 months–4 years need multiple doses of COVID-19 vaccines to be up to date, including at least 1 dose of updated COVID-19 vaccine.
  • People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised may get additional doses of updated COVID-19 vaccine.

Last update, January 2024

What is Influenza (Flu)?

Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. Some people, such as people 65 years and older, young children, and people with certain health conditions, are at higher risk of serious flu complications.  There are two main types of influenza (flu) viruses: types A and B. The influenza A and B viruses that routinely spread in people (human influenza viruses) are responsible for seasonal flu epidemics each year.

Influenza (Flu) Vaccine Recommendations

  • Everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine every season with rare exceptions. Vaccination is particularly important for people who are at higher risk of serious complications from influenza.

 

Last update, January 2024

What is Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)?

Respiratory syncytial (sin-SISH-uhl) virus, or RSV, is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. Most people recover in a week or two, but RSV can be serious. Infants and older adults are more likely to develop severe RSV and need hospitalization.

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) Vaccine Recommendations

RSV immunizations are recommended for these groups only:

  • Two RSV vaccines (Arexvy by GSK and Abrysvo by Pfizer) have been licensed by FDA and recommended by CDC for adults ages 60 and older.
  • One RSV vaccine (Abrysvo by Pfizer) has been licensed and recommended during weeks 32 through 36 of pregnancy to protect infants.
  • An RSV preventive antibody has been licensed and recommended for infants and some young children.

Last update, January 2024

Modes of Transmission of COVID-19, Flu and RSV

COVID-19, Flu and RSV can spread when:

  • There is Person-to-person transmission. Virus droplets are expelled when an infected person coughs or sneezes and droplets are breathed in or land in your eyes, nose, or mouth.  
  • You have direct contact with the virus, like kissing the face of a child with RSV.
  • You touch a surface that has the virus on it, like a doorknob, and then touch your face before washing your hands.

Methods to prevent COVID-19, Flu and RSV Transmission

Every year, influenza (flu), COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) cause hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations and thousands of deaths during the fall and winter virus season. In the United States, we now have more tools than ever before to help people protect themselves, their families, and communities, including:

  • Safe, updated immunizations – For the first time ever, immunizations are available for all three major fall and winter respiratory diseases – flu, COVID-19, and RSV (for groups eligible for RSV immunization).
  • Widely available, effective treatments – Treatments are available for flu and COVID-19 and can reduce severe illness, hospitalization, and death.
  • Testing – Tests, some of which can be done at home, can quickly detect these respiratory viruses so patients don’t delay treatment and other actions that can protect their family, friends, and coworkers. COVID-19 Testing: What You Need to Know

 

  • Everyday actions – Other tools like masking, physical distancing, washing hands, and improving airflow in the places where people live and work can provide an additional layer of protection.

Additional Preventive Measures:

  • Hand Hygiene:
    • Wash hands frequently with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.
    • Use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
  • Respiratory Hygiene:
    • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing.
    • Dispose of used tissues in a lined trash can and wash hands immediately.
  • Face Masks:
    • Wear masks in crowded or enclosed settings, especially if physical distancing is challenging.
    • Follow public health guidelines on mask usage.
  • Cleaning and Disinfection:
    • Clean and disinfect frequently-touched surfaces daily, including doorknobs, light switches, and electronic devices.
  • Avoid Touching Face:
    • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Stay Home When Sick:
  • Ventilation:
    • Ensure proper ventilation in indoor spaces by opening windows and doors when possible.
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
    • Use appropriate PPE, such as masks and gloves, in healthcare settings or other situations as recommended by health professionals.

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CDC Respiratory Illness facts and information sites are linked below:

CDC- About COVID-19

CDC – About Flu

CDC- Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection (RSV)

CDC- What to Do If You Were Exposed to COVID-19

CDC- Similarities and Differences between Flu and COVID-19​

CDC- Take 3 Actions to Fight Flu

CDC- RSV in Infants and Young Children

Please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for additional information on protecting yourself and others from RSV, Flu, and COVID-19.

 

Last update, January 2024