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28 Fredericksburg Parent and Family • October 2023 This summer, social media feeds and reels were full of travel, gatherings, con- certs—and almost completely devoid of the masks and quarantining that held us back during the pandemic. While it's a relief to have moved on from those difficult years, there are still important precautions we can all take to slow the spread of respiratory illnesses in our community this winter. In addition to Covid, both influenza and RSV infections tend to ramp up as the weather cools. To help you plan for a healthy fall and winter, the Rappahannock Area Health District offers the following advice to parents. Q: What vaccinations do I need to protect against Covid infection? RAHD: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended in September that everyone ages 6 months and up receive a dose of the 2023- 2024 COVID-19 vaccine made by Pfizer and Moderna. These vaccines can be given after 2 months from your previous dose. For more information on these recommendations, please visit cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/ expect.html Q: Can you get a flu shot at the same time as a Covid booster? RAHD: CDC continues to recommend annual flu vaccination for everyone 6 months or older. It is fine to get both the flu shot and the Covid booster on the same trip to the pharmacy or doctor's office. Going forward, health officials say it is likely that people will need to get both a flu and Covid shot annually. The CDC states that flu shots can be given during any trimester of pregnancy. Pregnant women should receive the flu shot, not the live attenuated vaccine that comes in a nasal spray. Talk to your physician about which vaccine is best for you. Don't Leave Booster Shots While it's a relief to have moved on from those difficult [pandemic] years, there are still important precau- tions we can all take to slow the spread of respiratory illnesses in our community this winter. WRITTEN BY EMILY FREEHLING The Rappahannock Area Health District encourages families to prepare now for the winter spread of respiratory illness. Sponsored Material Off Your Fall Bucket List