Flu season is coming. What Michigan residents should know about flu, COVID and RSV shots

Key Points:

• Medical experts recommend getting flu shots in October to prevent widespread influenza, along with updated COVID-19 and RSV vaccinations for vulnerable populations ahead of the fall and winter seasons.
• Flu vaccination is advised for nearly everyone aged 6 months and older, with enhanced vaccines available for seniors and new mRNA-based flu vaccines approved for those 50 and older showing improved effectiveness.
• COVID-19 vaccines remain recommended especially for adults 65 and older, high-risk individuals, and young children, with evidence supporting safety during pregnancy and availability of multiple vaccine options including mRNA and non-mRNA types.
• RSV vaccines are advised for adults 75 and older, at-risk adults aged 50 to 74, immunocompromised individuals, and pregnant women to protect infants during RSV season, with additional preventive options for high-risk babies.
• Vaccinations are widely accessible at pediatricians, clinics, and pharmacies without prescriptions, with Medicare and most private insurers covering costs; October is the optimal time for flu shots, while COVID-19 vaccines can be timed around personal events to maximize protection.