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Winter Illnesses Rise: Get Vaccinated!
12 Dec
Summary
- Vaccines prevented nearly 5 million medical visits last flu season.
- Less than half of children received updated flu vaccine last year.
- Trust in public health guidance has declined since COVID-19.
The upcoming holiday season presents an increased risk of infectious diseases such as influenza, RSV, and COVID-19 due to declining national vaccination rates. Historically, colder weather facilitates virus transmission, and viral mutations necessitate ongoing protection. Vaccines remain a critical defense, having prevented approximately 5 million medical visits during the 2023-2024 flu season alone.
Despite their effectiveness in reducing severe illness, seasonal vaccination rates in the U.S. are alarmingly low. Last flu season saw record hospitalizations, with unvaccinated individuals accounting for two-thirds of cases. This trend is partly attributed to a decline in public trust following shifting recommendations during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Policymakers are urged to rebuild trust by ensuring access to evidence-based guidance and encouraging consultations with healthcare providers. While vaccination does not guarantee complete immunity, it significantly reduces the risk of severe illness, allowing families to celebrate the holidays with greater comfort and togetherness.
