Respiratory virus season is upon us again and as temperatures get colder in Connecticut, many people are coming down with colds, the flu, and COVID-19. Vaccination is a key strategy to staying healthy as it is the most effective defense to prevent severe illness. There are vaccines available for the three viruses that cause the most hospitalizations: flu, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Here is what to know about each illness and vaccination this respiratory virus season.
October is a great time to consider scheduling a flu vaccination as it takes two weeks to develop full protection. Stamford Health Medical Group offers flu vaccinations at its Walk-In Centers in Stamford, Norwalk, and Wilton; and primary care and pediatric practices.
Stamford Health Medical Group offers COVID-19 vaccinations at its Walk-In Centers in Stamford, Norwalk, and Wilton; and primary care and pediatric practices.
Remember that one of the easiest ways to stay healthy this season is also the simplest: Wash your hands! And be sure to stay home when you’re sick.
Flu:
According to the Connecticut Department of Health, flu activity in the U.S. last year (during the 2024-25 season) was classified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as severe, with the highest rates since 2010-2011 season. Flu activity is currently low in Connecticut but typically ramps up in November.October is a great time to consider scheduling a flu vaccination as it takes two weeks to develop full protection. Stamford Health Medical Group offers flu vaccinations at its Walk-In Centers in Stamford, Norwalk, and Wilton; and primary care and pediatric practices.
COVID-19:
In early September, the Connecticut Department of Health issued interim COVID-19 immunization guidance stressing that vaccination against COVID-19 remains the most effective defense to prevent severe COVID-19 outcomes. The state urges you to discuss vaccination with your primary care provider to understand if it’s right for you. Immunizations are particularly important for people at greater risk of severe disease, including those above the age of 65 or with immuno-compromising conditions.Stamford Health Medical Group offers COVID-19 vaccinations at its Walk-In Centers in Stamford, Norwalk, and Wilton; and primary care and pediatric practices.
RSV:
RSV is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. Most people recover in a week or two, but it can cause severe disease in infants and older adults. The guidance on protection for these two at-risk groups is as follows:- Adults: The CDC recommends the RSV vaccine for all adults ages 75 and above. It is also recommended for adults ages 50-74 who are at increased risk of severe RSV disease due to certain underlying conditions, such as chronic lung or heart disease. The RSV vaccine needs to be given only once; a booster is not required each season. The vaccine is available at local pharmacies.
- Infants: An RSV maternal vaccine is available for pregnant women at weeks 32-36 of pregnancy, to pass on protection to their baby. Please speak with your OB-GYN about this vaccine; it is not offered at Stamford Health Medical Group OB-GYN offices currently. Nirsevimab, a monoclonal antibody, continues to be recommended for infants during the RSV season to protect against severe disease. This is offered to all newborns born at Stamford Hospital during RSV season.
Remember that one of the easiest ways to stay healthy this season is also the simplest: Wash your hands! And be sure to stay home when you’re sick.
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