Flu, COVID-19, and RSV: What to share with patients – The Loop – University of Iowa Health Care

In the height of respiratory season, patients will look to trusted health care providers to help navigate flu, COVID-19, and RSV.

To help guide patients, check out the resources below about these three common respiratory season viruses.

We want to remind patients that a seasonal flu vaccination is the most important step they can take to protect themselves and others against the virus. Everyone 6 months of age and older should be advised to get a flu vaccine each yearincluding those who are pregnant.

Getting vaccinated before the end of October provides the most protection during the height of flu season, so now is the time to encourage patients to get their flu vaccination.

If a patient wants to get a flu vaccination but isnt sure how to get one, they can schedule their flu shot online through MyChart or on uihc.org.

Patients can safely receive the COVID-19 vaccination at the same time as their flu vaccination, or they can space out vaccinations if preferred. Either way, its important to remind them that the vaccine provides the best protection against serious illness from COVID-19.

Everyone ages 5 years and older is recommended to receive one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, and this dose should be given at least two months after their most recent COVID-19 vaccination.

The process to get a COVID-19 vaccination through UI Health Care is almost identical to receiving a flu vaccination. Patients can schedule a vaccination appointment online through MyChart or on uihc.org.

At this time, UI Health Care is only offering the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. There are small amounts of the Moderna vaccine available for those under 5 years old. Ask your pediatrician during a scheduled appointment if there are any in stock that day.

For the first time, there are approved medicines that can protect infants and older adults from RSV, and we want to make patients aware of them.

There is a vaccine available for adults over age 60 and pregnant persons that protects newborn babies. There is also a preventative monoclonal antibody treatment for babies.

Adults over 60 should decide with their doctor if getting this vaccine is a good choice for them. A weakened immune system and underlying chronic medical problems may be a reason to offer the vaccine.

Pregnant persons between 32 and 36 weeks of pregnancy during the RSV season are recommended to receive the vaccine because the immunity it generates has been proven to protect babies after they are born.

All infants under 8 months are recommended to receive this RSV preventive antibody if born during the RSV season. Children at risk of severe RSV can receive treatment through 19 months old.

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Flu, COVID-19, and RSV: What to share with patients - The Loop - University of Iowa Health Care