As temperatures drop and leaves turn golden, health experts are warning of a familiar seasonal threat: respiratory viruses. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) expects a similar number of hospitalizations from Covid-19, influenza, and RSV this fall and winter as last year. Vaccination, doctors say, remains the strongest line of defense against severe illness.
“Vaccines may not prevent every infection, but they reduce the risk of hospitalization and death dramatically,” said Dr. Mike Ren of Baylor College of Medicine. The CDC estimates nearly 540,000 Covid-19 hospitalizations and up to 63,000 deaths from October 2024 through September 2025, alongside about 1 million flu hospitalizations and 130,000 deaths.
Covid-19 Vaccines: Updated Guidelines and Access
The CDC now recommends that everyone 6 months and older consult with a health care provider about receiving the updated Covid-19 vaccine. The new approach emphasizes “shared decision-making,” where individuals assess risks and benefits with doctors, pharmacists, or nurse practitioners.
Three vaccine options are available in the U.S.: Pfizer (ages 5+), Moderna (ages 6 months+), and Novavax (ages 12+). This year’s doses have been updated to target newer virus strains and are available at most major pharmacies such as CVS and Walgreens. For uninsured individuals, a Covid booster costs about $220 at retail pharmacies, but most insurance plans continue to cover the vaccine at no cost through 2026.
Experts recommend getting vaccinated in October or early November to ensure protection during the holidays. According to Dr. Sarah Dupont of Emory University, people recently infected with Covid-19 may delay their booster, as natural immunity offers temporary protection.
Flu Vaccines: Annual Protection and New Options
The CDC continues to recommend the annual flu shot for everyone aged 6 months and older. Most people need one dose per season, while children receiving the vaccine for the first time may require two shots, spaced four weeks apart.
This year brings a new innovation: the first at-home nasal spray flu vaccine. AstraZeneca’s FluMist Home, approved by the FDA, allows adults under 50 and children over 2 to self-administer or receive parental assistance. Covered by most insurance plans, the kit ships for $8.99 and requires an online medical screening.
Doctors suggest getting the flu shot by late October—ideally before Halloween in what some call the “flu before boo” campaign. Without insurance, flu shots range from $30 for a standard dose to $130 for a high-dose vaccine recommended for seniors.
RSV Immunizations for Adults and Infants
For respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)75 and older and for those aged 50–74 at higher risk of severe illness. One dose provides at least two years of protection. Pregnant people between 32 and 36 weeks are encouraged to get the vaccine to pass antibodies to their newborns. Infants can also receive an RSV antibody shot shortly after birth.
The best time to receive the RSV vaccine is late summer or early fall. The shot costs about $350 without insurance, but many assistance programs help lower costs.
Additional Preventive Measures
Beyond vaccines, doctors recommend practicing good hygiene and maintaining strong immunity. “Frequent handwashing, covering coughs, and avoiding crowded indoor spaces can help reduce transmission,” said Dr. Dan Barouch of Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center.
Healthy habits such as adequate sleep, balanced nutrition, and physical activity can further strengthen the immune system. Older adults and at-risk individuals are also encouraged to consider the pneumococcal vaccine to prevent bacterial pneumonia.
“People should stay home when sick, and if they want extra protection, wearing a mask is still a sensible option,” Barouch added.
As the 2025–26 virus season begins, experts agree that vaccination remains the most effective tool against severe illness from Covid-19, flu, and RSV. Combined with hygiene and self-care, these measures can help Americans navigate the colder months safely and reduce strain on hospitals nationwide.