Respiratory Virus Season Is Coming. Here Is How to Get Ready.

Every fall, as temperatures start to drop and the season shifts, respiratory viruses pick back up right where they left off. Flu, COVID-19, and RSV show up at the same time, and the overlap can put real strain on families. The good news is that preparation goes a long way.

What to know:

More than 78,000 Arizonans were hit by flu, COVID-19, or RSV last season alone.

Vaccines for flu, COVID-19, and RSV are considered preventive services, which means AZ Blue members can get them at no extra cost.

A few simple habits like washing your hands, covering coughs, and staying home when sick can protect you and the people around you.

Who is at higher risk

Most people recover from respiratory illnesses without serious complications. But some people face a greater chance of severe illness or hospitalization, including:

Adults 65 and older

Infants and young children

Pregnant women

Anyone managing a chronic condition like diabetes, asthma, or heart disease

If you or someone in your household falls into one of these groups, getting vaccinated before cases start climbing is especially important.

Flu

Flu season typically peaks between December and February, but cases can start rising as early as October.

Who should get vaccinated: Everyone 6 months and older, every year.

Why it matters: Most people recover within a week, but flu can be life-threatening for high-risk groups.

Cost for AZ Blue members: The flu shot is a preventive service and available at no extra cost.

COVID-19

COVID-19 is now endemic, meaning it will continue to circulate regularly. COVID-19 can cause severe illness, hospitalization, and death, especially in higher-risk individuals. Vaccination remains the best protection against serious illness and related complications.

Who should get vaccinated: Most adults 18 and older every year. Children 6-23 months. Parents of children ages 2 years to 17 years should talk to their doctor.

Why it matters: Updated vaccines are designed to protect against the most current strains in circulation.

Cost for AZ Blue members: The COVID-19 shot is a preventive service and available at no extra cost.

RSV

RSV causes cold-like symptoms in most people but can lead to serious illness in vulnerable groups.

Who should get vaccinated: Adults 50 and older, pregnant women, babies, and some young children. Read full breakdown here.

Why it matters: RSV is a leading cause of hospitalization for infants and older adults.

Cost for AZ Blue members: The RSV vaccine is a preventive service and available at no extra cost.

Where to get vaccinated

Your primary care provider. No regular doctor? Log in to azblue.com to find an in-network provider near you. Call ahead to confirm vaccine availability.

Your local pharmacy. Most major pharmacies offer all three vaccines.

Simple habits that still work

Vaccines are the strongest tool, but a few basics go a long way alongside them:

Wash your hands often

Cover coughs and sneezes

Stay home when you are not feeling well

Avoid close contact with people who are sick

Respiratory virus season comes every year. Getting ahead of it is the easiest thing you can do for your health this fall.

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Flu, RSV and COVID-19 Vaccines: What to Know