Preparing for the 2024 Flu and Respiratory Virus Season in New Hampshire
Fall Is The Time To Get An Annual Flu Vaccine
As the vibrant fall foliage returns to New Hampshire in 2024, so too does the season of cooler temperatures and the start of respiratory virus season. With the heightened risk of flu and other respiratory illnesses, Granite Staters need to stay informed and prepared. In the months ahead, the New Hampshire Public Health Association (NHPHA) is focusing on community education and prevention strategies to safeguard public health.
The Importance of the Annual Flu Vaccine
The flu can affect anyone, but it is especially dangerous for older adults, young children, pregnant individuals, and those with underlying health conditions. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends everyone aged 6 months and older get vaccinated against influenza each year. Flu strains can change year to year, and immunity from previous vaccinations wanes over time, making it important to get the updated shot.
This fall, the NHPHA is encouraging residents to get vaccinated early in the season, ideally before the end of October, as it takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to fully develop. Many pharmacies and local health centers are offering convenient flu shot clinics, making it easier than ever to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Navigating Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and Other Respiratory Viruses
In addition to flu, fall and winter are also peak times for Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and other respiratory infections. RSV, which can cause severe illness in infants and older adults, has been an increasing concern in recent years. For fall 2024, new preventive treatments, including monoclonal antibodies for high-risk infants, have been approved, providing another layer of defense.
Staying informed about the symptoms of RSV and similar viruses is essential. Symptoms can include coughing, wheezing, runny nose, and fever, which overlap with other seasonal illnesses, including COVID-19. New Hampshire residents should seek medical advice if they or their children show signs of severe respiratory illness, especially in vulnerable populations.
COVID-19: Adapting to the 2024 Landscape
While the immediate crisis of COVID-19 has diminished, it remains a circulating virus, and many communities are still managing its impacts. For fall 2024, an updated COVID-19 booster shot is available to target the most current variants. With overlapping risks from the flu and other viruses, receiving the COVID-19 booster alongside your flu vaccine can help reduce the strain on the healthcare system and minimize the chance of severe illness.
The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) continues to track COVID-19 cases and encourages vaccination for all eligible individuals, especially those with higher risk factors. Fall gatherings, school activities, and holiday celebrations can increase exposure risks, so reinforcing good hand hygiene and considering mask-wearing in crowded indoor spaces may still be beneficial.
Supporting Mental and Emotional Health During Fall Transitions
As days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, many people experience shifts in their mental and emotional well-being. The seasonal transition can bring on symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or exacerbate feelings of anxiety and depression. With this in mind, the NHPHA is emphasizing mental health as part of its fall public health initiatives. Encouraging outdoor activities during daylight hours, maintaining social connections, and seeking support from mental health professionals when needed can make a significant difference.
Engaging Communities Through Public Health Resources
Community engagement is crucial to ensuring everyone has access to the information and resources needed for a healthy fall season. The NHPHA is working with local public health networks to disseminate information on vaccination clinics, preventive care, and mental health services. Ensuring that all Granite Staters—regardless of age, location, or background—have access to these resources is at the core of the NHPHA’s mission.
From making sure children are up to date on their vaccines to helping older adults manage chronic conditions and mental health, this fall is an opportunity to come together as a state and protect our communities. By taking simple steps—getting vaccinated, staying informed, and caring for our mental health—we can make sure everyone enjoys the beauty of fall while staying healthy and resilient.
