By Jennifer Dunlay

Respiratory viruses like COVID-19, influenza and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) made an earlier than usual appearance in Johnson County this season. Cases of all three, especially RSV, started trending upward in the fall and have continued to increase.

This is concerning for health officials as we approach the time of year when respiratory viruses typically peak – January and February.

Over the past two years, COVID-19 has been the predominant cause of respiratory illnesses, while the incidence of other respiratory illnesses has been lower than usual. However, with a combination of waning COVID-19 immunity and more indoor gatherings, we could see a “tripledemic” of respiratory
infections this winter which may overwhelm hospitals and cause excess deaths.

If you or someone you know has recently recovered from one of these illnesses, you may be wondering why you still need to get vaccinated for COVID-19 and flu. Charlie Hunt, interim director of the Johnson County Department of Health and Environment, provides some answers.

Why do I need to get vaccinated?

While the CDC has changed its COVID-19 guidelines regarding masking and social distancing, it’s crucial for people to take precautions on their own to protect themselves, their loved ones and the community: Get a flu shot and updated COVID-19 booster (if eligible), wear high-quality masks in high-risk situations or after COVID-19 exposure, stay home when sick, get tested for COVID-19 when ill or after exposure and wash hands regularly.

Getting a flu vaccination helps keep people from getting sick with the flu, reduces the risk of severe illness or complications from the flu and reduces the risk of hospitalization.

People over age 65 and those with chronic medical conditions like, diabetes, heart disease, COPD and asthma are at higher risk of developing serious complications from respiratory viruses if they get infected.

It’s recommended that people 65 and older get a highdose flu shot versus a standard flu shot as recent studies suggest the higher dose vaccine is more effective in this age group.

Won’t my natural immunity protect me?

Immunity from infections and vaccines wanes over time. Since you don’t know what strain of virus infected you, it’s best to get vaccinated to provide another layer of protection and reduce your risk of severe infection and hospitalization and help reduce transmission.

Will my flu shot protect me from COVID-19?

Flu and COVID-19 are two different viruses, so getting vaccinated against flu does not mean you’re protected COVID. Fortunately, we have vaccines to protect against both.

If the last time you received a COVID-19 vaccination was more than two months ago, it’s time to get the updated bivalent booster. These updated booster vaccines protect against both the original virus that causes COVID-19 and the Omicron variant.

It’s safe to get a COVID-19 vaccine or booster and the flu shot at the same time. Both vaccines are available at the Johnson County Department of Health and Environment’s walk-in clinics in Olathe (11875 S. Sunset Drive) and Mission (6000 Lamar Ave.). You can also find them at many grocery stores, pharmacies, doctors’ offices and clinics.

COVID-19 vaccines and boosters are free of charge at JCDHE clinics. Flu vaccines are covered by Medicare Part B and by most Medicare Advantage plans with no copay.

For more information about COVID-19 boosters, flu vaccines and JCDHE’s clinic hours, call 913-826-1200 or visit jocogov.org.

Jennifer Dunlay is risk communicator for the Johnson County Department of Health and Environment.