healthcare Workers Urged to Get Vaccinated against ‌respiratory Viruses

Updated May 25, 2025

The Centers for disease Control and‍ Prevention ⁢(CDC) is urging healthcare workers to get ​vaccinated against respiratory‍ viruses, including the⁢ flu, COVID-19, and RSV, as​ the respiratory virus season begins.Vaccination, along with standard infection control practices, is a critical tool for protecting both healthcare workers and their patients.

Vaccines reduce ‌the⁤ risk of illness and transmission.⁢ For instance, the 2023-2024 COVID-19 ⁤vaccine was 58% effective⁢ against critical illness and death for up to six months post-vaccination. Updated COVID-19 vaccines for 2024-2025 are designed to protect against currently‍ circulating variants and may also reduce the risk of Long COVID.

The CDC recommends that all ⁢healthcare⁢ workers consider recommended vaccines⁤ for​ respiratory viruses. Most health insurance ​plans cover COVID-19 vaccines at no cost. Free vaccines are also ⁤available ‍for those without insurance or whose plans don’t cover the ⁣full cost. Individuals 65 and older, and those with underlying conditions, face a higher ‌risk of severe complications from ​these viruses.

The RSV vaccine is recommended for adults⁤ 75 and‍ older, and those 60-74 at higher risk.⁣ it is also ​recommended for pregnant women between 32 and 36 weeks gestation during September through January to‍ protect ⁤infants from severe RSV disease. Healthcare workers should⁤ consult their facility’s Occupational Health ‌Department or their healthcare provider for more details on recommended vaccines.

The CDC⁣ and other ⁤federal agencies closely monitor vaccine safety. Employer-sponsored vaccination programs can help staff​ receive recommended vaccines conveniently and cost-effectively.

What’s next

Healthcare facilities should stay informed about local respiratory virus activity and implement strategies to encourage ⁢staff ‍vaccination.