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15 January 2025

Staying Healthy During Winter

Francesca Ceddia
Chief Medical Affairs Officer
Media Center > Blogs > Staying Healthy During Winter

The Seasonal Challenge

Winter is a magical season filled with cozy get-togethers, warm drinks and cherished traditions. But have you ever wondered why it’s also the time when sniffles, coughs and fevers seem unavoidable? Respiratory illnesses like COVID-19, RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) and influenza (flu) are at their peak during the winter, posing serious health risks, particularly for older adults and those with weakened immune systems.¹ Staying proactive about prevention is the key to enjoying a healthy winter.

Why Are Viruses More Prevalent in Winter?

Cold weather drives us indoors, where close contact creates the perfect conditions for viruses to spread.² Additionally, the low humidity of winter air helps viruses survive longer, increasing the likelihood of infection.³

Understanding the Threats

  • COVID-19: Like the flu, COVID-19 requires updated vaccines to address new variants and maintain protection. Despite treatments, it remains a persistent health concern.⁴

  • RSV: Often underestimated, RSV can lead to severe respiratory complications, particularly in older adults and individuals with compromised immunity.⁵

  • Influenza: The flu may seem familiar, but it’s far from predictable. Annual outbreaks vary in severity, and updated vaccines are essential to combat evolving strains and reduce complications.⁶

The Power of Vaccination

Vaccines remain the most effective defense against these viruses. Here’s why they’re especially vital for older adults and the immunocompromised:

  • Reduced Severity: Vaccination lowers the risk of severe illness, hospitalization and death.⁷ Notably, adults over 65 are at least three times more likely to be hospitalized due to COVID than the flu.⁸ More than 95 percent of adults hospitalized in 2023-2024 for COVID had not received the latest vaccine.⁹

  • Community Protection: Vaccinated individuals help safeguard vulnerable populations by reducing virus transmission.¹⁰

  • Targeted Solutions: Updated vaccines, tailored to the latest variants, offer the best protection for flu and COVID-19.¹¹ ¹²

Steps to Stay Protected

  • Get Vaccinated: Stay up-to-date on COVID-19 and flu shots and, if eligible, RSV vaccines.

  • Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently, use hand sanitizer and avoid touching your face.¹³

  • Maintain Indoor Air Quality: Use air purifiers and ensure proper ventilation to reduce airborne virus particles.¹⁴

  • Know When to Seek Help: If symptoms appear, especially for at-risk groups, consult a healthcare provider promptly.

The Role of Community Awareness

Every action counts. By getting vaccinated and encouraging friends and family to do the same, you contribute to a healthier community. Together, we can reduce the impact of these respiratory illnesses this winter.

Proactive Protection for a Healthier Winter

While winter brings challenges, it’s also an opportunity to take charge of your health. Protect yourself and those you love by staying informed, adopting preventive habits and prioritizing vaccinations. A little effort now can make this winter a season of health, joy and connection.

It’s not too late to get your updated vaccines for respiratory viruses. Visit www.ForYouAndThem.com to find a COVID-19 vaccine appointment near you.

A Critical Reminder

As we see the rise of influenza and COVID-19, we also face the increasing threat of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), for which no vaccine is currently available. This highlights the importance of acting when vaccination options are available—vaccines are powerful tools to protect not just yourself but also your community. If you have the opportunity to get vaccinated, we encourage you not to hesitate.

¹https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/situation-summary/index.html

²https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/prevention/air-quality.html

³https://www.cdc.gov/ncird/whats-new/ventilation-respiratory-viruses.html

⁴https://www.cdc.gov/covid/vaccines/stay-up-to-date.html

⁵https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/older-adults/index.html

⁶https://www.cdc.gov/flu/vaccines/index.html

⁷https://www.cdc.gov/ncird/whats-new/immunization-can-prevent-severe-respiratory-illness-and-death.html#:~:text=Staying%20up%20to%20date%20with,to%20date%20on%20recommended%20immunizations.

⁸https://www.cdc.gov/resp-net/dashboard/

⁹https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/risk-factors/older-adults.html

¹⁰https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/basics/explaining-how-vaccines-work.html

¹¹https://www.cdc.gov/covid/vaccines/stay-up-to-date.html

¹²https://www.cdc.gov/flu/vaccines/keyfacts.html#:~:text=Beginning%20again%20in%202024%2D2025,an%20influenza%20B%2FVictoria%20virus.

¹³https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/prevention/hygiene.html

¹⁴https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/prevention/air-quality.html

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