{
  "id": 925188,
  "title": "Winter is coming: How vaccines help protect against respiratory illness",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/15/winter-is-coming-how-vaccines-help-protect-against-respiratory-illness",
  "topic": "health",
  "section": "Health & Medicine",
  "published": "2026-08-15T00:40:01.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Medical Xpress",
    "slug": "medical-xpress",
    "url": "https://medicalxpress.com/news/2026-08-winter-vaccines-respiratory-illness.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "As autumn approaches, the month of August serves as a timely reminder for National Immunization Awareness Month. This period offers an ideal opportunity to prepare for the seasonal spread of viruses and bacteria that can lead to respiratory illnesses, from the common cold to pneumonia. For individuals with chronic breathing conditions like asthma or COPD, the risk of severe illness due to these infections is significantly higher, potentially resulting in hospitalization or even death.\n\nVaccines stand as one of the most remarkable achievements in modern medicine. By teaching the immune system to recognize viruses and bacteria before exposure, they help prevent diseases while minimizing the risk of severe complications. Typically, vaccines contain inactive forms of viruses or bacteria, thus not causing the illness they aim to prevent. Instead, they enable the body to produce protective antibodies. In the event of future exposure, the immune system can respond more swiftly, reducing the likelihood of severe illness, hospitalization, and complications.\n\nWhile vaccines are not infallible, their effectiveness is notable for most people. The perceived minor discomfort or mild symptoms may actually indicate a full two weeks of fever, chills, and coughing. Like any medication, vaccines can cause side effects; however, the benefits far outweigh these risks. When weighing the decision of vaccination, it is crucial to compare the risks of receiving the vaccine with the potential risks of contracting the infection itself.\n\nMisinformation and disinformation surrounding vaccines are prevalent, making it essential to consult with a healthcare provider such as an allergist or primary care physician. These medical professionals are familiar with one's medical history, risk factors, medications, and other relevant information that can assist in making an informed decision regarding vaccinations.\n\nAs the months progress, emergency department visits and hospitalizations tend to increase due to viruses triggering asthma attacks. Although not all viruses have corresponding vaccines, several vaccines are available to protect against common and severe respiratory infections. These include vaccines for influenza (flu), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and COVID-19, which can all cause severe illness, particularly in individuals with chronic lung conditions.\n\nCertain vaccines are updated annually due to the evolving nature of influenza and COVID-19 viruses. Booster doses may also be recommended as the protection provided by vaccines can diminish over time. Furthermore, the RSV vaccine is available for pregnant women to safeguard their newborns, as well as for adults aged 75 and older, and for certain adults aged 50-74 who face a higher risk of severe disease. Vaccines are also available to protect against bacterial respiratory infections, such as pneumococcal disease and pertussis (whooping cough), which can lead to prolonged and severe coughing.\n\nAs National Immunization Awareness Month approaches, it is an opportune time to discuss necessary vaccinations with healthcare providers. More information about asthma and chronic lung conditions can be found at www.acaai.org. Vaccination plays a pivotal role in reducing the severity of respiratory illnesses, hospitalizations, and complications from infections like influenza, COVID-19, RSV, pneumococcal disease, and pertussis, especially in individuals with asthma or COPD. Annual updates or boosters may be required as immunity and viral strains change, with RSV vaccination recommended for eligible pregnant individuals and high-risk adults.",
  "summary": "August is National Immunization Awareness Month—the perfect time to prepare for the viruses and bacteria that spread each fall and winter.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}