Respiratory Virus Landscape Evolving: Updated Vaccines Needed

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Sunday, March 8th 2026 at 21:03 GMT by Los Angeles Daily News
      Locale: UNITED STATES

The Evolving Landscape of Respiratory Viruses

The CDPH's recommendations are a response to the evolving nature of these respiratory viruses and the continued need for robust public health measures. While the acute emergency phase of the COVID-19 pandemic has subsided, the virus continues to circulate and mutate, necessitating updated vaccines designed to target currently dominant strains. Similarly, flu viruses are notoriously unpredictable, requiring annual vaccinations to ensure protection against the strains expected to be most prevalent each season. RSV, a common respiratory virus, poses a significant threat to infants and older adults, and the recent availability of vaccines for these populations marks a crucial step forward in public health preparedness.

Who Should Get Vaccinated?

The guidelines are broad, covering a wide range of age groups and risk factors.

• COVID-19: The CDC recommends everyone ages 6 months and older receive an updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine, regardless of prior vaccination status. This emphasizes the need for consistent boosting to maintain immunity against evolving variants. The updated vaccines are formulated to better match circulating strains.
• Influenza (Flu): Annual flu vaccination is recommended for everyone ages 6 months and older. Flu viruses change constantly, so a new vaccine is formulated each year to match the predicted strains.
• RSV: RSV vaccination is now recommended for two key groups: adults ages 60 years and older, and pregnant people who are at least 24 weeks pregnant. The vaccine for older adults aims to reduce the severity of illness, while vaccination during pregnancy helps protect the newborn infant from RSV in the first few months of life. This is a particularly significant development as RSV can be severely dangerous for babies.

Timing is Everything: Preparing for the Holiday Season

Public health officials are urging residents to prioritize vaccinations before the peak of the respiratory virus season. The ideal time to receive both the COVID-19 and flu vaccines is at least two weeks before Thanksgiving (November 28th). This allows sufficient time for the body to develop immunity before holiday gatherings, when indoor interactions increase the risk of transmission.

"Getting vaccinated now isn't just about protecting yourself; it's about protecting your family, friends, and the broader community," Dr. Torain explained. "It helps prevent overwhelming our local hospitals and ensures everyone has access to the care they need."

Accessing Vaccines in Pasadena

Pasadena Public Health Department offers COVID-19 vaccines at its clinics. Residents can find information about clinic locations and appointment scheduling on the city's website. Flu vaccines are readily available at most local pharmacies, including CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid, as well as through primary care providers. RSV vaccines are also accessible at pharmacies and provider offices.

Resources for More Information

The Pasadena Public Health Department provides comprehensive information about COVID-19, flu, and RSV on its website: cityofpasadena.net/publichealth. Residents can also find additional information and schedule vaccinations through the state's MyTurn system: myturn.ca.gov. Staying informed and proactive is crucial in navigating the ongoing challenges posed by respiratory viruses and ensuring a healthy fall and winter season for all.