flu vaccines

Reports say the US Food and Drug Administration has approved the first mRNA-based flu vaccine, marking a new application of the technology widely used in COVID-19 vaccines. The trending term reflects news headlines about the decision. Beyond the headline itself, the available posts contain no further details on the vaccine's maker, availability, or public reaction, so what people are saying beyond sharing the news is not clear from the posts.

A new survey from the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases finds that most US adults support vaccines, yet many remain unclear about current recommendations for respiratory vaccines, such as those for flu, COVID-19, and RSV. The findings highlight a gap between general trust in vaccination and public understanding of which shots are advised and when.

Public health officials are telling people to get their flu and COVID-19 vaccines before the end of October, so protection builds up before respiratory virus season peaks in the winter months. The advice applies broadly as both viruses circulate at the same time each year, and officials stress vaccination remains the best way to reduce severe illness and hospital stays.

Ontario residents in priority groups can receive Covid and flu vaccines starting September 28. The early rollout covers hospitalized patients, hospital staff, people aged 65 and older, and residents and staff of long-term care homes, retirement homes and similar settings. The announcement sets up the province's fall respiratory illness campaign ahead of the wider public rollout.

Health experts in Wisconsin are encouraging residents to get their flu shots as the season approaches. Officials stress that vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent influenza and reduce strain on local hospitals. The reminder comes as part of routine seasonal health messaging aimed at boosting vaccination rates across the state.

Essentia Health is running vaccine clinics ahead of the upcoming respiratory virus season, offering shots as hospitals and clinics prepare for a rise in flu, COVID-19 and other respiratory infections in the fall and winter months. The clinics give residents in the health system's service areas a chance to get vaccinated early, with health providers encouraging timely immunization before case numbers climb.

Local health departments have begun offering flu vaccines on a walk-in basis, removing the need for appointments. Residents can visit their nearest department during opening hours to get vaccinated ahead of flu season. Health officials typically encourage annual flu shots, particularly for older adults, young children and people with underlying health conditions.

The Cattaraugus County Health Department in western New York will begin running influenza and Covid-19 vaccination clinics for residents. The announcement signals the start of the respiratory illness season vaccination push, giving residents local access to both seasonal flu shots and updated Covid vaccines as health officials prepare for fall and winter illness.