(Family Features) During the fall and winter months, respiratory infections such as flu, COVID-19 and RSV can surge. People who are vaccinated lower their risk of getting seriously ill and needing medical care if they get infected. About 70% of adults in the United States said they probably or definitely will get a flu shot, and more than 50% said they probably or definitely will get an updated COVID-19 vaccine.
While many people are ready to get this season’s vaccines, others might still have questions. “It is normal for people to have questions about vaccines,” said Peter Marks, MD, PhD, director of the U.S.
Food and Drug Administration’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, which oversees and reviews vaccine clinical trials. “It’s important for everyone to know that all vaccines go through extensive testing before they are approved and that following approval, they are carefully monitored to identify any safety concerns so that they can be addressed quickly. Hundreds of thousands of volunteers have taken part in respiratory vaccine trials.
The results tell us that these vaccines are safe and effective in preventing severe disease caused by flu, COVID-19 and RSV.” Here are some ways to talk about the importance of this season’s vaccines with a family member or friend who is unsure about getting vaccinated. Hear them out .
When talking about vaccination, it’s important to make others feel heard. There are many reasons why people may have questions .
