Vaccine Uptake Lags This Season, CDC Reports

This flu and Covid vaccine season is off to a slow start, says the CDC. As of mid-November, only about one-third of U. S. adults have gotten their flu shot, while roughly 18% have received the latest Covid vaccines. This is similar to last year's rates. The CDC urges everyone, especially the elderly and those with medical conditions, to get vaccinated. Flu and Covid can cause serious illness, and kids under 5 are at high risk. Last flu season, over 200 kids died, most unvaccinated.

Nursing home residents aren't faring much better. Only about 30% have gotten the new Covid vaccine, and flu and RSV vaccination rates are also low. The good news? More nursing home residents are getting the RSV vaccine, which became available last year. It's a one-time shot for those 75 and older, and for those 60 and up with health risks. To protect infants, the CDC recommends vaccinating pregnant mothers or giving babies an antibody shot after birth.

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