New York : A recent national survey conducted by The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center has exposed a concerning trend, with one-third of Americans expressing indifference to the potential threat of respiratory illnesses, despite warnings from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The survey found that 87 percent of respondents claimed to take all necessary precautions to avoid spreading seasonal viruses. However, a significant portion (one-third) held the belief that their vaccine decisions did not impact others, leading them to dismiss the necessity of vaccines for influenza or Covid-19 if they perceived themselves as not being at high risk.
Megan Conroy, a pulmonologist and critical care specialist, emphasized the severity of respiratory illnesses, stating, “Unfortunately, respiratory viruses can cause really severe and life-changing diseases for some people, even among the young and very healthy. The best way to help prevent a virus from really upending your life or others is to get vaccinated.”
In addition to the typical seasonal threats like the flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), the healthcare system is now grappling with the inclusion of Covid-19 in the respiratory virus season. The CDC projects a higher number of hospitalizations this year compared to pre-pandemic seasons, adding strain to an already stressed healthcare infrastructure.
Conroy pointed to the concerning situation in the southern hemisphere, where Australia experienced an almost record-setting influenza season. This serves as a warning sign for potentially higher flu numbers than average in the U.S., especially given the decline in universal masking.
Both the flu and Covid-19 vaccinations are recommended for everyone aged six months and older, with clinical trials underway to explore the feasibility of combining both vaccines into a single shot. For RSV, vaccination is advised for adults aged 60 and older and pregnant individuals during weeks 32 through 36 of pregnancy from September to January.
Additionally, adults aged 65 or older, those aged 5 to 64 with increased pneumonia risk due to chronic heart or lung conditions, or weakened immune systems, as well as children under 5, are recommended to receive pneumonia vaccinations.
Conroy emphasized the importance of staying vigilant against respiratory illnesses, noting, “Whenever we have more viruses in the community, it’s likely that we’ll also see more bacterial and viral pneumonia, and it can cause severe illness in people of all ages.” The authors of the survey emphasized the enduring presence of respiratory illnesses, underlining the importance of maintaining awareness and preventive measures each year.