The Sconi

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) is urging residents to get vaccinated against respiratory illnesses this fall. Updated COVID-19 and new annual flu vaccines are now available, alongside RSV vaccines for eligible individuals, including most older adults and pregnant people. An RSV antibody to protect infants from severe illness will be available starting October 1.

"In the fall, viruses like flu, RSV, and COVID-19 start to increase across Wisconsin and spread through communities, workplaces, schools, and other places people live, work, and play," said State Health Officer Paula Tran. "While they may only cause mild sickness for some people, for others—like older adults, infants, and those with underlying health risks—they can cause serious illness and even death. Vaccines are safe and effective, and we encourage Wisconsinites to talk to their health care providers to see what’s best for them."

Currently in Wisconsin, COVID-19 activity is elevated statewide, particularly among children younger than five years old and adults over 65. Although flu and RSV activity is currently low, levels are expected to rise. DHS recommends seasonal vaccines for flu, COVID-19, and RSV.

The flu vaccine is recommended annually for everyone aged six months and older. This is especially important for those at high risk of severe symptoms: older adults; people with chronic health conditions; pregnant individuals; and young children.

Everyone aged six months or older should receive the updated COVID-19 vaccine. The 2024–2025 formulation aims to protect against current variants of COVID-19.

A single dose of the RSV vaccine is recommended for individuals aged 60 or older who have not yet received it. This vaccine does not need to be administered annually.

DHS advises either maternal RSV vaccination or infant immunization with monoclonal antibodies to prevent severe disease in infants. Most infants will not require both forms of protection. Certain pregnant individuals should receive the maternal RSV vaccine between weeks 32–36 of pregnancy from September 1 through January 31.

If a pregnant person does not receive the maternal RSV vaccine during pregnancy, an antibody shot called nirsevimab is recommended for infants under eight months old—and some toddlers—to protect against severe RSV infection from October 1 through March 31.

Vaccination appointments are available through healthcare providers, clinics, pharmacies as shipments arrive. Wisconsin residents can check with their primary care provider or visit vaccines.gov to schedule a vaccination appointment.

"Vaccines are proven to be a safe and effective way to protect yourself and those around you from the most common respiratory viruses this season," said Dr. Stephanie Schauer from DHS Division of Public Health Immunization Program Manager." In addition to getting vaccinated," she continued," we encourage Wisconsinites to cover coughs and sneezes; wash or sanitize hands often; maintain awareness of respiratory viruses spreading in your community when making plans."

DHS continues its mission year-round by tracking illness spread across Wisconsin through monitoring vaccination rates reported by healthcare providers statewide. Data on overall respiratory activity will be summarized on new respiratory data webpages featuring emergency department data along with laboratory testing results.

For media inquiries:

Ali Maresh - Director

Claire Yunker - Deputy Director

Elizabeth Goodsitt - Specialist

Jennifer Miller - Specialist

Media contact: DHSMedia@dhs.wisconsin.gov

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