Frederick County Health Department Expecting Rise In Respiratory Illnesses This Fall

Vaccines have been updated for 2023 to best protect against these viruses.Frederick, Md. (BW)- Respiratory illnesses such as COVID-19, the flu and RSV are expected to increase in the fall.The Frederick County Health Department recommended preventable measures against the infection and spread of these illnesses. Officials say stay home if sick, wash your hands, wear a high quality mask and get RSV, COVID-19 and/or flu vaccines.The Health Department will be providing free flu vaccines for children who are uninsured or underinsured.There will also be COVID-19 vaccination clinics set up for children between the ages of six months and five years old.The Health Department is awaiting new COVID-19 and flu vaccines, approved by the CDC. They are expected to be available in the next few weeks.RSV is more common in older adults, but COVID-19 and the flu are equally likely to spread to any individual.For treatment of these illness or guidance, Health Department officials recommend talking with your healthcare provider.