Connecticut Health Officials Urge Vaccinations As Respiratory Illnesses Rise

CONNECTICUT — The Connecticut Department of Public Health is urging residents to get vaccinated against seasonal respiratory viruses as flu and RSV activity increases in neighboring New York and is expected to rise in Connecticut in the coming weeks.

“New York's increased flu and RSV activity is an early warning for Connecticut,” DPH Commissioner Manisha Juthani said in a statement. “As we approach the holidays, get your seasonal shots if you haven't already. It's not too late to protect yourself and your loved ones from serious illness.”

State health officials said vaccinations remain the most effective tool to reduce severe illness and limit the spread of respiratory viruses, particularly among vulnerable groups such as young children, older adults, pregnant women and people with underlying health conditions.

DPH recommends that everyone 6 months and older receive an annual flu shot and the updated COVID-19 vaccine. Adults 60 and older and pregnant women are eligible for the RSV vaccine Abrysvo, while infants younger than 8 months may receive the protective monoclonal antibody nirsevimab during RSV season.

COVID-19 remains the most common respiratory virus circulating in Connecticut, though cases have steadied following a rise earlier this fall. Flu and RSV activity is currently low but increasing, a trend officials expect to continue through the holidays.

Vaccines are available through primary care providers, pharmacies and online.

DPH also encouraged residents to help limit transmission by staying home when sick, washing hands frequently, cleaning surfaces and wearing a mask when experiencing respiratory symptoms.

More information on statewide case trends, hospitalizations and deaths is available on the department’s website.