The holiday season is a time when we gather with friends and family to celebrate. But these gatherings also pose a hidden threat. Large, indoor gatherings can be the perfect environment for viral infections to spread. Staying up to date on recommended immunizations strengthens protection against vaccine-preventable illnesses, reduces symptom severity, and can significantly reduce strain on overcrowded hospitals. To prevent seasonal surges, it’s important to speak with your patients about the proper precautions and recommended vaccines.
Combatting the “Tripledemic” Through Immunization
The 2022-2023 winter introduced a “tripledemic” of three highly contagious infections—influenza (flu), COVID-19, and RSV—that spread across the country and overwhelmed emergency rooms. To prevent its return this year, it’s recommended that patients review the current vaccine schedule from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and receive timely immunization against the flu, COVID-19, and RSV, if applicable.
Flu is highly contagious and most common during the cold weather months. Symptoms include fever, respiratory distress, headaches, and muscle pains. The CDC recommends that everyone over six months old should receive the vaccine annually. Flu immunization is most effective when administered in September or October. After October, personal protection and opportunity for herd immunity begin to decline.
COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. While most individuals experience mild to moderate symptoms, other cases are fatal. Symptoms can be long-lasting and include fever, respiratory distress, sore throat, loss of taste and smell, fatigue, and body aches. The CDC recommends that everyone over six months old should receive the appropriate primary vaccine dosage and recently updated COVID-19 booster. It’s recommended that patients stay updated with their COVID-19 boosters to ensure the strongest protection.
RSV is an upper respiratory infection associated with coughing, wheezing, and fever. Young children, children born prematurely, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals are at heightened risk for infection and experiencing severe symptoms. Adults over the age of 60 are eligible to receive either of the recently approved vaccines: Arexvy and Abrysvo. Even if eligible, the CDC recommends that physicians speak with their patients to determine if receiving the vaccine is right for them.
Other Recommended Precautions
After getting recommended vaccinations, there are plenty of additional preventive best practices patients can take for added protection during the holidays. Before attending an event or gathering, patients should monitor themselves for any symptoms and stay home if they are sick to prevent the spread of infection. Before attending any large gathering, patients can test for COVID-19 and implement a short (three-to four-day) quarantine to reduce the risk of spreading the virus. Lastly, if patients are concerned about contracting an infection at an event or visiting places with large crowds, patients can wear a mask to combat the spread of illness and add additional air filtration.
To promote safe gathering practices leading up to the holiday season, providers should utilize time with patients to share strategies for celebrating safely and preventing illness. Providers can encourage their patients to take the necessary steps to contribute to the general health of themselves and their community, including scheduling their vaccinations.
We’re here to help our member community protect their patients this holiday season. If your practice or clinic has any questions or needs assistance with preparing their vaccine inventory, please contact our team.