Key Takeaway:
- Get vaccinated early: Virginia health officials urge residents to get annual flu shots through Virginia flu vaccination efforts before seasonal activity increases.
- Protect high-risk groups: Older adults, young children, and people with chronic conditions face higher risks of severe respiratory illness.
- Reduce hospital strain: Flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccinations can help prevent severe illness and ease pressure on health care services.
Virginia health officials and hospital leaders are urging residents to get annual flu vaccines before respiratory illness activity increases, citing risks to vulnerable populations and pressure on health care services.
Health Officials Promote Vaccination Before Flu Activity Peaks
Virginia State Health Commissioner Dr. B. Cameron Webb joined representatives from the Virginia Department of Health, Riverside Health and the Virginia Hospital & Healthcare Association on Oct. 15 to encourage Virginia flu vaccination and vaccination against COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV.
The event at Riverside Internal Medicine Warwick in Newport News highlighted the importance of immunization during respiratory illness season, which typically runs from October through May. Influenza activity generally peaks between December and February.
Webb received a flu shot during the event to demonstrate the vaccination process. The Virginia Department of Health recommends seasonal flu vaccination for everyone 6 months and older, with rare exceptions.
“Flu, COVID-19, and RSV can have serious health impacts for our most vulnerable residents, including older adults, young children, and anyone living with a chronic health condition,” Webb said in a statement released by the department.
He added that respiratory viruses contribute to urgent care and emergency room visits, missed work and school, and longer waits for patients. Officials said vaccination can help protect individuals and reduce the spread and impact of these illnesses.
Flu Season Brings Significant Health Risks
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated that 32 million to 57 million Americans contracted influenza during the 2025-2026 season. The agency also estimated 15 million to 25 million medical visits, 390,000 to 800,000 hospitalizations, and 24,000 to 81,000 deaths related to the flu.
Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness that can range from mild symptoms to severe disease and death. The virus spreads through respiratory particles released when infected people cough, sneeze, or talk.
Although anyone can develop serious complications, adults aged 65 and older, young children, people with chronic medical conditions, and those with weakened immune systems face greater risks.
Sean T. Connaughton, president and CEO of the Virginia Hospital & Healthcare Association, said annual flu vaccination can reduce the impact of influenza on individuals and communities.
“Getting vaccinated can also help reduce the strain on hospitals and healthcare providers during respiratory virus season,” Connaughton said. He encouraged Virginians to make vaccination part of their fall health routine.
Health care leaders say Virginia flu vaccination and reducing preventable infections are particularly important during months when respiratory illnesses increase demand for medical services.
Hospitals Encourage Residents to Protect Vulnerable Groups
Dr. Michael Oshiki, president of Riverside Regional Medical Center and senior vice president of Riverside Health’s Acute Care Division, emphasized the value of prevention before flu activity rises.
“Influenza can have serious consequences, particularly for older adults, young children and people with underlying health conditions,” Oshiki said. He added that vaccination before widespread transmission increases can help reduce the risk of serious illness.
Virginia flu vaccination is available through health care providers, pharmacies, local health departments and other vaccination sites. Residents can contact their health care professionals to discuss recommended vaccines based on their age, medical history, and individual circumstances.
Health officials also encourage residents to consider protection against COVID-19 and RSV, which can cause serious illness, particularly in people at higher risk of complications.
The campaign aims to increase vaccination before seasonal respiratory viruses place greater demands on families, workplaces and hospitals. Officials say immunization remains an important tool for reducing severe illness and protecting communities during the fall and winter months.
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