2025 Vaccine Recommendations From Health Officials
Preparing for the season ahead
As we head into the fall and winter months there are so many fun and exciting events around the valley! You may have cleaned up your garden already or pulled out your winter gear, but have you considered what vaccines you might need? Staying up to date on vaccine recommendations is important for older adults, but the information can feel overwhelming. This year brings updated guidance on three key vaccines: flu, RSV, and COVID-19. In this blog we’ll cover vaccine information based on current health guidance from the West Coast Health Alliance and the Washington Department of Health.
Flu Vaccine
Public health officials recommend everyone 6 months and older should receive an annual flu vaccine, with special formulations available that provide added protection specifically for older adults. The vaccine covers three strains of seasonal flu and reduces the risk of needing to visit a doctor by 30% to 60%.
RSV Vaccine for Older Adults
The RSV vaccine is not something you need to get every year—if you received one previously, you likely do not need another one this year. If you are uncertain whether you’ve had this vaccine, you can check with your healthcare provider. The recommendations for this particular vaccine are based on your age:
People ages 50+ “may” get the vaccine
People ages 75+ “should” get the vaccine
There are 2 types of vaccines available. GSK and Pfizer have protein-based options that were also available last year and have proven their safety and effectiveness. According to Your Local Epidemiologist, these vaccines (along with flu vaccines) carry a very small risk of causing Guillain-Barre syndrome (a rare neurological condition in which the immune system attacks the peripheral nervous system).
Moderna is offering an mRNA vaccine, but it might not be available yet. The protection seems to be shorter lived with this option, but it didn’t have the same Guillain-Barre syndrome risk as the protein-based options.
COVID-19 Vaccine
The COVID-19 vaccine is available in Washington to those 6 months and older that wish to be vaccinated. For adults, the Washington Department of Health suggests vaccination for:
Anyone 65+ years old
Anyone younger than 65 years with risk factors
Anyone in close contact with others with risk factors
Anyone that chooses protection
For timing, the recommendations suggest:
If you were recently infected, wait 4-6 months, as research shows that waiting allows antibody factories to update more effectively
If you were not recently infected, either get it now or wait to increase protection against the winter wave, which may be closer to November
Getting Vaccinated
Ulrich’s pharmacy in Twisp is currently offering no-appointment COVID-19 shots (for those 18+) and flu shots between 10am and 4pm, but please call ahead to confirm (509-997-2191). According to the Washington State Department of Health, these vaccines are generally covered by insurance or available at little to no cost through vaccine programs.
As always, talk with your healthcare provider about which vaccines are right for you and the best timing for your individual circumstances. Taking these preventive steps can help protect you and our community during the fall and winter months. The less time we are sick at home, the more time we have for all of the great Methow At Home events going on!
Healthy Guidelines for MAH Events & Services
If you plan to attend one of the many wonderful events that we are hosting this fall or winter, please be considerate of everyone’s health! Indoor events present an increased risk of spreading respiratory illnesses, so let’s keep a few things in mind:
Please do not participate in events if you have symptoms of a respiratory illness, or a positive test for Covid-19 or Influenza.
We will offer masks and hand sanitizer at all events and encourage their use.
We will not provide certain services in person if you have an active respiratory infection.
For members, we will offer meal trains, grocery shopping and doing errands or chores outside your home if you are sick.
Resources
The information provided is for educational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here.