SWNPHD urges vaccination for RSV, influenza

McCOOK, Neb. — The Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department (SWNPHD) is urging residents to get vaccinated against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and Influenza (flu) as respiratory virus season approaches. These viruses, which are common during the fall and winter months, pose a serious health risk, particularly for young children, older adults, and people with certain medical conditions.

RSV spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, as well as through direct contact or contact with contaminated surfaces. Those infected can spread RSV up to two days before symptoms appear and for three to eight days afterward. While most people experience mild symptoms and recover quickly, infants, young children, and older adults face a higher risk of severe illness and complications. Each year, RSV hospitalizes an estimated 58,000 to 80,000 children under age five in the United States.

SWNPHD advises that the following groups receive the RSV vaccine:

• Adults aged 75 or older.

• Adults aged 60 to 74 with chronic heart or lung conditions, weakened immune systems, diabetes, or those living in nursing homes.

• Pregnant women at 32 to 36 weeks gestation to protect themselves and pass immunity to their baby.

• Infants up to eight months old, or those aged eight to 19 months with chronic lung disease from preterm birth.

• Infants whose mothers did not receive the RSV vaccine can receive an RSV antibody injection for direct protection.

The flu, another potentially fatal respiratory virus, affects the nose, throat, and lungs. The flu vaccine reduces the risk of contracting the virus and can lessen the severity of symptoms, decreasing the likelihood of requiring medical attention or hospitalization. SWNPHD recommends everyone aged six months and older receive an annual flu shot.

For further details on how to protect your health this season, residents can contact SWNPHD at 308-345-4223 or visit swhealth.ne.gov. The SWNPHD serves Chase, Dundy, Frontier, Furnas, Hayes, Hitchcock, Keith, Perkins, and Red Willow counties and provides health updates and resources on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.