Risk Less, Do More: Why Do Vaccinations Matter?

As the old adage goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure; so what can you do to reduce the risk of you and your loved ones needing hospitalization due to dangerous viruses this holiday season?

In addition to regular handwashing, vaccinations for things like Flu & RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) help protect you and those around you from serious illnesses. Vaccines can prevent common diseases that in years past often seriously harmed and even killed those of us with naturally weaker immune systems, including infants, children, and older adults, especially those with pre-existing health conditions. Even if you personally do not experience bad symptoms of a virus like RSV, you could very well pass it on to infants or young children in your life who are more likely to be hit much harder by it.

Vaccines can never guarantee you will not contract a virus at all, however if vaccinated people do get sick, they are likely to have milder symptoms. In general, it is very rare for someone vaccinated to experience severe illness or die.

It is always better to prevent a disease than to treat one after it occurs.

Learn more below about which viruses you are most at risk of contracting this winter:

Flu: The flu virus spreads easily during winter months. Flu shots reduce the risk of severe illnesses and hospitalizations, which is especially important for seniors.

COVID-19: Even though we’ve come a long way managing COVID-19 the virus is still around. Stay protected this holiday season with the latest boosters.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus: RSV can cause severe breathing problems in infants, children, and older adults, especially those with pre-existing health conditions like COPD and emphysema. A simple vaccine can prevent complications.

Remember: It’s not too late to get vaccinated! Click here to learn more, or check with your healthcare provider or pharmacy for availability.