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“What we know is vaccines are effective,” said Dr. Johnathan Alterie.
And because of that, Dr. Alterie is hoping that everyone watching this at least talks to their doctor about a trio of vaccines.
“That is COVID, influenza, and RSV,” Dr. Alterie said.
Let’s start with the shot that’s been around the longest.
“The flu vaccine is something that’s been out for decades, it’s been well studied,” Dr. Alterie said.
There is no way of knowing yet if this year’s shot is a solid match for this year’s virus, but…
“Time and time again, it’s been demonstrated to be effective,” Dr. Alterie said.
He says consider getting your flu shot before Halloween.
“The flu vaccine is great at reducing the severity of illness,” Dr. Alterie said.
As for side effect of the shot, or any vaccine according to Dr. Alterie, some folks may feel a little punky.
“People don’t necessarily get sick from the vaccine, but their system gets a little revved up and worked up and then it calms back down after a day or two,” Dr. Alterie said.
Up next: the RSV vaccine.
“RSV is one of the most deadly and common viral pathogens, viruses, that affect us in the fall and winter months. And it accounts for over 80,000 pediatric hospitalizations,” Dr. Alterie said.
We tend to see a spike in cases from November through February.
So once again, October is a good time to consider the relatively new RSV vaccine.
“Most importantly is: have that discussion with your primary doctor about is it right for you,” Dr. Alterie said.
And finally: this year’s COVID vaccine
“The FDA and CDC have just rolled out the new COVID vaccine for this fall,” Dr. Alterie said.
And like the other two vaccines, it may not keep you from getting sick, but it’s expected to lessen your body’s reaction to the virus.
You probably won’t feel as sick for as long.
We encourage you to discuss the different vaccine options with your primary care doctor,” Dr. Alterie said.
It’s a personal choice, but one that Dr. Alterie and other medical professionals believe could not only keep you healthier, but could keep you from having to visit them this winter.
“The more people who do get vaccinated, the more people are going to have that added layer of protection and it’s going to drive down severity of illness and with that drive down hospitalizations and offload the burden on our hospitals,” Dr. Alterie said.
It’s not to early to consider these vaccines but before you do, talk to your doctor or healthcare provider to make sure you have all the information you need to make the right choice for you.