September 22, 2026
Media Contact: Rachel Dumene, Rachel.dumene1@vdh.virginia.gov, 540-480-4998
The Central Shenandoah Health District Encourages You to Protect Yourself from Respiratory Viruses
STAUNTON, Va. – Autumn brings the start of respiratory illness season. The Central Shenandoah Health District (CSHD) reminds you that vaccines are your best protection against severe disease from flu, COVID-19 and RSV. Talk to your healthcare provider to determine which 2026-27 seasonal vaccines are right for you.
“These can be serious illnesses and should not be taken lightly,” said Marsha Rodeffer, nursing manager at CSHD. “Flu deaths can climb into the tens of thousands each year. With effective vaccines available, taking a chance on getting sick is never worth the risk.”
Flu
CSHD recommends that everyone six months and older, with rare exceptions, should get an influenza (flu) vaccine every season.
While the best time to get the flu vaccine is by the end of October, it’s never too late. You can continue to get protection from the flu vaccine as long as flu viruses are circulating. Flu activity normally begins increasing in early October and continues to late May, often peaking in January or February.
The updated flu vaccine includes protection against three strains of flu virus, including the influenza A(H3N2) subclade K virus that spread widely during the 2025-2026 season.
COVID-19
COVID-19 vaccines are available for everyone six months and older and are especially recommended for those at high risk of severe disease, including older adults, infants and during pregnancy.
CSHD recommends getting an updated COVID-19 vaccine, if eligible, because vaccine protection decreases over time.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
All adults aged 75 years and older are recommended to receive a single dose of one RSV vaccine. If you are 50-74 years old with a health condition, speak with your healthcare provider to decide if the RSV vaccine is the right choice for you. If an adult 50 years and older has already received an RSV vaccine in a previous season, they do not need a dose this season.
All babies should be protected from severe RSV by one of two immunization options. A maternal RSV vaccine can be given during pregnancy, or an RSV monoclonal antibody can be given to your baby. These immunization products have been shown to cut the risk of hospitalization significantly for infants going into their first RSV season. Pregnant people and parents of newborns should talk with their healthcare providers about RSV immunizations.
For more information, contact the Staunton-Augusta Health Department at cshdinfo@vdh.virginia.gov or visit the VDH Respiratory Illness webpage.
# # #