3 Ways to prevent respiratory illnesses this season

Newborns and young children are especially at risk for potentially life-threatening complications from flu, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). As we enter the season of germs and illness, Karen Woolf, MD, pediatric emergency medicine specialist at Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children shares these tips to keep your child well.

1. Protect your baby from RSV: In July, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration [jM1] (FDA) approved a new antibody injection that helps prevent RSV. It also reduces the risk of severe respiratory illness that leads to hospitalizations. The vaccine is available for newborns and infants experiencing their first exposures to RSV, as well as children up to 24 months old with risk factors like lung or heart conditions.
2. Stay safe from the flu: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC[jM2] ) recommends the flu vaccine for people 6 months and older. “We’re expecting an earlier flu season this year,” says Dr. Woolf, who suggests families get vaccinated in October before the flu virus starts to circulate.
3. Lower your family’s risk of COVID: Newly formulated COVID vaccines are now available for everyone 6 months and older. The vaccines offer protection from currently circulating variants. “Vaccinations for respiratory viruses are the best way to lower an infant or child’s risk of complications, as well as prevent the spread of illness to others,” says Dr. Woolf.

Visit vaccines.gov to learn more about these illnesses and find a vaccine site near you.

 [jM1]https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-new-drug-prevent-rsv-babies-and-toddlers

 [jM2]https://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/vaccination/vax-summary.htm