Doctors Warn What To Expect From Sick Season This Year

Key Points:

• The upcoming fall and winter seasons are expected to see continued circulation of respiratory viruses such as flu, RSV, COVID-19, and common colds, with flu season typically peaking between December and January.
• Flu vaccination rates have declined since the pandemic and remain below the 70% target, despite vaccination being the most effective protection against severe illness, hospitalization, and death from flu, COVID-19, and RSV.
• Indoor gatherings and reduced ventilation during colder months increase the spread of respiratory viruses, making preventive measures such as masking, hand hygiene, social distancing, and avoiding crowded spaces important.
• RSV activity is currently low but expected to rise in the fall and winter, with vaccines available for high-risk groups including babies, pregnant people, and older adults, while no vaccines or antiviral treatments exist for common cold viruses.
• Experts recommend testing for flu and COVID-19 when respiratory symptoms appear to determine eligibility for antiviral treatments, emphasizing vaccination and non-pharmacologic measures to reduce illness risk during the season.