Public Awareness Campaign on Respiratory Viruses

The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is launching a crucial public education campaign to raise awareness about respiratory viruses, and we have exclusive access to this information before its official release on August 19.
This initiative, titled “Risk Less. Do More” is aimed at educating the public about the importance of vaccinations for influenza (flu), COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Disparity in Vaccination Rates
Did you know that Hispanics are among the groups that receive the most minor flu vaccinations yet face 20% higher levels of flu hospitalization compared to other minorities?
This shocking disparity underscores the urgent need for this campaign, especially within the Hispanic community, which is at greater risk of severe illness from these viruses.

Objectives of “Risk Less. Do More”
“Risk Less. Do More” seeks to dispel myths and provide accurate information about respiratory virus vaccines.
With so much misleading information circulating on the internet and social networks, this campaign aims to set the record straight.

The initiative will cover:
• Myths and Realities about Respiratory Virus Vaccines: Understanding the truth behind COVID-19, flu, and RSV vaccines.

• Impact on the Hispanic Community: Highlighting how these viruses disproportionately affect Hispanics.

• Maximizing Vaccine Protection: When, where, and how to get the most effective protection from these vaccines.

Why Vaccination is Crucial
Vaccination is a crucial defense against the severe impacts of respiratory viruses. Understanding its importance can help protect at-risk populations and reduce the burden on healthcare systems.

The Burden of Respiratory Viruses
Respiratory viruses are responsible for most respiratory diseases. Last winter alone, flu, COVID-19, and RSV caused 800,000 hospitalizations within six months. Vaccination is a powerful tool that can help protect families from these severe outcomes.

Older Adults at Greater Risk
Adults aged 65 and above are at a relatively higher risk of severe illness and death from respiratory viruses.
Up to 8 in 10 flu deaths occur in this age group. Furthermore, more than 95% of adults hospitalized with COVID-19 last fall and winter had not received the updated vaccine.
Compared to people under 40, those over 75 are about nine times more likely to die from COVID-19.

Protecting Newborns and Pregnant Women
Newborns and pregnant women are most vulnerable to respiratory viruses. Contracting the flu or COVID-19 can be extremely dangerous for pregnant women and their babies. RSV also poses a severe threat to newborns.
However, when pregnant women receive vaccinations, their babies are protected for the first six months of life, providing a crucial shield during this vulnerable period.

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Spreading the Word
As we approach autumn and winter—the peak seasons for the spread of respiratory viruses—it’s more important than ever to spread the word.
We offer an exclusive interview with an expert who can delve deeper into these topics, answer questions, and provide valuable insights.

Key Takeaways
• Viruses Cause Most Respiratory Diseases: Flu, COVID-19, and RSV are significant culprits, leading to hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations.

• Older Adults are Highly Vulnerable: The majority of flu and COVID-19 deaths occur in adults aged 65 and older.

• Vaccines Protect Newborns and Pregnant Women: Pregnant women who get vaccinated help protect their babies for the first six months of life.

By educating ourselves and our communities, informed decisions can be made to protect our health and the health of those we love. Stay informed, get vaccinated, and help spread the message of “Risk Less. Do More.”