Get vaccinated and stay healthy this winter
This year’s flu, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and COVID season takes place from September to March; take action now before you and others get sick.
Getting vaccinated is a safe and easy way to prevent seasonal illness. It helps
you avoid severe health issues, missed workdays and even hospitalization in serious cases. By getting seasonal vaccines, you’re protecting yourself, your family, your friends and your community.
What you need to know
Every year seasonal vaccines are updated to protect you and your loved ones from current viral strains. Your eligibility for certain vaccines may vary depending on your age and other medical considerations. It’s ok to get your flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines at the same time unless your provider tells you otherwise.
WHAT are the options?
WHO is eligible?
HOW well do they work?
WHEN should I get it?
INFLUENZA
WHAT are the options?
A single vaccine that targets four strains of seasonal flu
WHO is eligible?
6 months and older
HOW well do they work?
Reduces the risk of going to the doctor by 40-60%
WHEN should I get it?
As soon as possible
COVID-19
WHAT are the options?
- Moderna (mRNA)
- Pfizer (mRNA)
- Novavax (protein)
- All vaccines have been updated to protect against current variants
WHO is eligible?
Moderna and Pfizer: 6 months and older
Novavax: 12 years and older
HOW well do they work?
Last year, the fall COVID-19 vaccine provided 48-61% efficacy against severe disease and death
WHEN should I get it?
As soon as possible
(If recently infected, you may delay 3 months)
RSV for older adults
WHAT are the options?
- GSK
- Pfizer
- Moderna
- They are slightly different in design, but only at a microscopic level.
WHO is eligible?
60 years and older
HOW well do they work?
82-86% efficacy against severe disease
WHEN should I get it?
As soon as possible
RSV for pregnancy
WHAT are the options?
Pfizer maternal RSV vaccine
WHO is eligible?
People who are 32 through 36 weeks pregnant
HOW well do they work?
82% efficacy in preventing hospitalization in first 3 months of life. 69% efficacy after 6 months.
WHEN should I get it?
Get one dose of maternal RSV vaccine between September and January
RSV MONOCLONAL ANTIBODY
WHAT are the options?
- Nirsevimab (Beyfortus)
- This is not a vaccine. It’s a proactive medication.
WHO is eligible?
- Recommended for infants younger than 8 months who were born during or are entering their first RSV season if:
- Mother did not receive RSV vaccine during pregnancy, or
- Mother's RSV vaccination status is unknown, or
- Infant was born within 14 days of maternal RSV vaccination
HOW well do they work?
Reduces risk of hospitalization and healthcare visits by ~80%
Most effective protection in weeks after it’s given and wanes over time
WHEN should I get it?
Talk to your pediatric provider about recommendations and availability.
Questions? We’re here to help you
Call 503-416-4279, toll-free at 888-712-3258 or TTY 711. Our hours are: October 1 through March 31, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily; and April 1 through September 30, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday-Friday. You can also send us a secure message through our member portal.
