CDC Report Indicates Low Vaccination Rates for Winter Viruses

November 22, 2024

There is still time to get vaccinated ahead of the winter respiratory virus season.

This week, the CDC released data on vaccination rates for flu, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) that indicate low coverage for the vaccines ahead of next week’s holiday.

"Early season estimates of vaccination coverage among U.S. adults with influenza, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines are low and indicate that many adults lack the protection from respiratory virus infections afforded by vaccines," the report said. "However, many unvaccinated adults reported that they definitely or probably will get vaccinated or were unsure, suggesting they are open to vaccination."

Here’s what you need to know:

• Flu:  About 35 percent of U.S. adults received the new flu vaccine as of November 9.
• COVID-19:  In that time, about 18 percent of adults had received the new COVID-19 vaccine.
• RSV:  RSV vaccination coverage was 40 percent among adults aged 75 and older, and 32 percent among those between 60 and 74 who are at higher risk for severe illness.
• Vaccine intent:  About 35 percent of adults 18 or older indicated they were open to receiving influenza vaccine and 41 percent were open to receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.
• Quotable:  “Health care providers and immunization programs still have time to expand outreach and promote vaccination activities to increase coverage in preparation for the height of the respiratory virus season,” the report notes.

As the holiday season approaches, HAP urges everyone to stay up to date on their vaccinations and to reach out to their health care providers for questions about staying healthy this holiday season. Learn more about appointments in your community online.

The CDC report is available to review online.