As the colder winter weather settles in, rates of respiratory illnesses like flu, COVID-19 and RSV can rise. These infections pose higher risks for older adults and can cause severe illness and hospitalization.
“We all like to gather indoors in the winter because of the cold weather,” said Kari Benson, deputy assistant secretary for aging at the Administration for Community Living. “But those gatherings are easy places for viruses to spread and for older adults to get sick. The good news is there are many ways for older people to lower their risk of serious illness.”
Here are some expert tips for older adults and caregivers from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Pan Respiratory Virus Public Education Campaign, “Risk Less. Do More.”
Get vaccinated against flu, COVID-19 and RSV. Compared to 2023, vaccinations for flu and COVID-19 have increased among older adults. Vaccines are the best protection against serious illness and can cut a person’s risk of being hospitalized for flu or COVID-19 by about half and for RSV by about 70%. Most deaths from flu, COVID-19 and RSV are among people ages 65 and older, and this risk grows with age.
The 2024-25 flu and COVID-19 vaccines are available for all people ages six months and older. RSV vaccines are recommended for anyone 75 and older as well as those 60 and older with certain health conditions or who live in nursing homes. Older adults and caregivers can talk to their doctors about which vaccines are right for them.
Try to avoid people who are sick. If family or friends you are planning to see aren’t feeling well, it’s best to reschedule or move your get-together outside. If you must be inside with someone who is sick, wear a mask and ask them if they will wear one, too. Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer frequently. You can also improve ventilation by opening doors and windows and using fans.
Limit time spent at large, indoor events. Viruses can spread quickly in large crowds, especially indoors. Spending extended periods in crowded inside spaces – such as large restaurants or concert and sports venues – can be risky, especially if rates of flu, COVID-19 or RSV are high in your community. Consider skipping these events until rates go down or going to outdoor events instead, if possible.
Respiratory viruses can surge during the winter months. However, there are ways to lower your risk of severe illness and hospitalization. To learn more about flu, COVID-19 and RSV, go to cdc.gov/RiskLessDoMore or talk to your doctor. Visit vaccines.gov to get started.
