The three vaccines that matter most for fall and winter are the annual flu shot, the updated COVID-19 vaccine, and the RSV vaccine for older adults and pregnant people who qualify. Most people age 6 months and older should get a flu shot every year, adults 18 and older are recommended to receive the current COVID-19 vaccine, and a single RSV vaccine dose is recommended for all adults 75 and older as well as adults 50 to 74 at higher risk. These vaccines can often be given at the same visit, which makes catching up in September or October convenient.
Why do fall vaccines matter?
Flu, COVID-19, and RSV all spread more in the fall and winter, and in most years they overlap for weeks at a time. Vaccination does not guarantee you will not get sick, but it meaningfully reduces the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and complications, which is why the CDC recommends routine immunization for each virus on the adult immunization schedule. Georgia's respiratory season typically runs from fall through late winter, so early fall is the practical window to get protected.
Who should get the flu shot?
Annual flu vaccination is recommended for everyone age 6 months and older who has no contraindication. Ideally it is given in September or October, before flu activity picks up, but getting it later in the season still provides benefit while the virus is circulating. Adults 65 and older are advised to receive a higher-dose or adjuvanted formulation when available, and your provider can confirm which option is right for you.
Who should get the updated COVID-19 vaccine?
The CDC recommends the current formula COVID-19 vaccine for all adults 18 and older. Adults 65 and older and people who are moderately or severely immunocompromised may be recommended a second dose about six months after their first dose, depending on the year's guidance and their health situation. Unlike the flu vaccine, the COVID-19 vaccine can be given any time of year, but the weeks before respiratory season are a reasonable time for most people to catch up.
- One dose of the current formula COVID-19 vaccine for most adults 18 and older.
- Adults 65 and older may be recommended a second dose about six months later.
- Immunocompromised adults may have personalized schedules.
- Your provider can confirm what the current season's guidance means for you.
Who should consider the RSV vaccine?
For older adults, CDC recommends a single lifetime dose of RSV vaccine for everyone 75 and older and for adults 50 to 74 who have a condition that raises their risk of severe RSV, such as chronic heart or lung disease, diabetes, or a weakened immune system. People who already received an RSV dose do not need another. For pregnant people, a single dose at 32 to 36 weeks of pregnancy, given between September and January in most of the United States, helps protect the newborn; an RSV antibody for the infant is an alternative that most babies do not need in addition.
- Adults 75 and older: one lifetime RSV dose recommended.
- Adults 50 to 74: one dose if at increased risk of severe RSV.
- Pregnant people: one dose at 32 to 36 weeks during RSV season.
- No repeat doses after the single RSV vaccine.
- Infants may instead receive an RSV antibody; most do not need both.
Can you get flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines at the same visit?
Yes. The CDC states that flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines can be given at the same visit when a person is due for more than one. This is one of the most practical ways to get up to date before Thanksgiving and the peak of respiratory season. A quick conversation with your provider is all it takes to decide which vaccines you need and to schedule them together.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get the flu shot and COVID-19 vaccine at the same time?
Do I need an RSV vaccine every year?
Who should get the RSV vaccine?
Does TruHealth offer these vaccines?
Sources and further reading
Educational purpose: This article is for general educational purposes and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific health situation.
About the author: Tina Jordan, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and the lead provider at TruHealth Primary Care in Locust Grove, Georgia.