Due to elevated levels of respiratory illnesses across the state, the Department of Health Services (DHS) is encouraging residents of Wisconsin to receive vaccinations for respiratory diseases promptly. They also want to emphasize that it’s still not too late to obtain the necessary protection to prevent severe illness during this season.
There has been a notable rise in the activity levels of flu, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) throughout Wisconsin and across the country. Emergency department visits related to respiratory viruses are on the upswing, particularly among infants, young children, and older adults.
“According to Tom Haupt, a Respiratory Disease Epidemiologist at DHS, the most effective method to safeguard yourself and others from respiratory viruses is through vaccination—there's always time to get vaccinated.” He continued, “Individuals aged six months and older are eligible to receive their flu and COVID-19 vaccines right now. Additionally, infants, pregnant individuals, and seniors may qualify for an RSV vaccine. By getting vaccinated against respiratory diseases, you can reduce the risk of transmitting these viruses to others, particularly those who are more vulnerable to severe illness.”
