Help Protect New England Adults During Respiratory Virus Season

New England's population, including residents in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont, is aging more rapidly than the national average with a higher proportion of adults over age 65. As adults age, their immune systems can change and weaken over time, which can increase the risk of severe illness, hospitalization and even death from respiratory diseases like flu, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and COVID-19. In addition to adults aged 65 and older, adults with chronic medical conditions like lung or heart disease and diabetes, and adults with weakened immune systems are also at increased risk for severe respiratory illness.

Key Facts

Vaccination Recommendations

Keeping up to date on recommended vaccinations is the best way to help protect against respiratory illness. Vaccination recommendations include the following:

Vaccination Reminders

Most types of health insurance cover flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccinations for their members without cost-sharing. Learn about coverage rules here.
Vaccines may be offered at healthcare provider office’s, local pharmacies or local health departments. Use this vaccine locator to find a location near you.

Resources

The American Lung Association has created the following resources to help encourage individuals in New England to talk to their healthcare provider to learn about which vaccinations are recommended for them.

Transcript

Breathing is essential. It brings oxygen into the body and removes carbon dioxide from the body. When you breathe, you may also breathe in respiratory viruses from infected people around you. Viruses like the flu, RSV, and CO 19 spread more in the colder months. There are steps you can take to avoid getting wicked sick from respiratory viruses.

Vaccinations for flu, CO 19, and RSV may be recommended for you depending on your age and risk factors and are the best protection against severe illness. In addition to vaccination, there are additional preventative measures you can take so you can use your vacation days for vacation and not sick days, spend time with loved ones, and enjoy your favorite fall and winter activities.

In New England, we look out for each other. Talk to your health care provider today about the vaccinations recommended for you. Learn more at lung.org/vaccines.

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