As the seasons change and respiratory illness season approaches, it's crucial to prioritize your health and take proactive steps to stay safe. The good news is that COVID and flu vaccines are now widely available, making it easier than ever to protect yourself and those around you. But with rising cases of COVID-19 and mosquito-borne illnesses, it's essential to take precautions and get vaccinated.

What if the assumption is wrong that everyone is getting vaccinated? What might be the consequences of widespread vaccine hesitancy? The Department of Public Health Commissioner Robbie Goldstein stressed that the country and state are experiencing a wave of COVID-19 infections, with 110 confirmed deaths since July 1 – a sobering reminder that vaccines work.

So, what's the plan? State and federal health officials recommend that everyone ages six months and older get updated COVID and flu shots. But what about those who recently contracted COVID and may not need or want to get vaccinated? Goldstein encourages them to get flu shots, emphasizing the importance of protecting against both diseases.

But it's not just COVID and flu you need to worry about. With eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) and West Nile virus (WNV) on the rise, it's essential to take steps to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses. Goldstein advises using insect repellent, wearing long clothing, and rescheduling outdoor activities during peak mosquito hours (dusk to dawn). Massachusetts has logged four human cases of EEE and 10 human cases of WNV – a stark reminder that these illnesses are real and can have devastating consequences.

What's often overlooked is the long-term neurological impact of EEE. While treatment is mostly supportive, those who survive are often left with lasting impairments. Children under 15 and adults over 50 are at particular risk, making it crucial for these groups to take extra precautions.

So, what can you do? Get vaccinated, get informed, and take steps to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses. It's a simple yet crucial formula for staying safe and healthy this fall and winter.

Get Vaccinated, Stay Safe: Why You Shouldn't Snooze on COVID and Flu Shots This Fall

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