Prepare for Respiratory Illness Season

As cooler weather arrives, so does the season for coughs, colds, and respiratory illnesses. While it's impossible to avoid every germ, there are simple ways to reduce the risk of getting sick, and a few updates this year on vaccines that can help protect against the most common respiratory viruses.

Good health habits still make the biggest difference.

• Wash hands often with soap and water, especially after being in public places.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick and stay home if you're not feeling well.
• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow.
• Disinfect commonly touched surfaces like doorknobs, phones, and light switches.
• Get enough sleep, eat well, and stay active. A healthy immune system is your best defense.

And before the season peaks, it's smart to plan for vaccinations that protect against major respiratory viruses: RSV, COVID-19, and influenza.

RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) can cause serious illness in infants, older adults and people with chronic health conditions. The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) recommends vaccination for all adults ages 75 and older, and for adults 50 to 74 who have certain risk factors such as lung or heart disease, diabetes, or weakened immunity. The best time to get the RSV vaccine is between August and October, before the typical season surge. Most adults need only a single dose for long-term protection.

Infants are also at higher risk for RSV, but they don't receive the adult vaccine. Protection for babies can come in two ways: through a vaccine given to the mother during pregnancy, or through a special preventive shot given directly to newborns during RSV season to help keep them from getting seriously ill.

COVID-19 continues to circulate, and updated vaccines are available to better protect against the most common strains. Getting the vaccine in the fall, especially for adults 65 and older, young children under the age of two, or anyone with ongoing health conditions, is one of the best ways to avoid the chance of serious illness.

Influenza, or flu, remains a major cause of wintertime illness. Because flu strains change each year, an annual vaccine is recommended for everyone six months and older, unless otherwise directed by your healthcare provider. The 2025-2026 formula is designed to match the strains expected to circulate this season. Getting vaccinated in early fall offers the best protection before flu activity peaks in Minnesota.

Respiratory viruses will always be part of the colder months, but simple precautions and timely vaccination can help families stay healthier and avoid complications. Getting vaccinated doesn't just protect you; it also helps prevent spreading illness to those who are more vulnerable, such as infants, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.

Along with good habits like frequent handwashing and staying home when you're sick, these small steps make a big difference in keeping our communities healthy. If you have questions about which vaccines are right for you or when to receive them, reach out to your primary care provider for guidance.