Winter is coming: How vaccines help protect against respiratory illness

As August marks National Immunization Awareness Month, health experts emphasize the importance of vaccination in preparing for fall and winter respiratory viruses and bacteria. Vaccines provide critical protection against illnesses such as influenza, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) that surge during colder months. Getting vaccinated now can significantly reduce the risk of infection, severe illness, and hospitalization during peak respiratory season. For vulnerable populations including young children, seniors, and those with chronic conditions, immunization is especially vital to prevent complications and protect community health.

Originally published on
Medical Xpress
Read full article(opens in new tab)Fetched: August 15, 2026 at 10:01 AM



