Answers to Tough Questions about Public Health
Clear, plain language, and factual talking points and responses to common public health inquiries. From COVID-19 and flu guidance to RSV and Measles information, this section is regularly updated to reflect new developments and emerging issues in the field.
Children and COVID-19
Talking Points
- Tens of thousands of children have been hospitalized with COVID-19, even though the risk of children and adolescents becoming severely ill or hospitalized is lower than the risk for adults.
- Vaccination is the best way to protect children from COVID-19. To protect against severe illness, the CDC recommends that all children and adolescents ages 6 months and older get an updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine.
- COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. Before they were authorized for use, health experts reviewed safety and effectiveness data from clinical trials involving thousands of children.
Updated October 25, 2024
Pediatric vaccines
All children age 6 months and older should get the updated 2024-25 COVID-19 vaccine. The recommended dose(s) depends on a child’s age, COVID-19 vaccine history, and the vaccine type (e.g., Moderna, Pfizer-BioNTech, or Novavax). Children are considered up to date when they receive all recommended doses, including at least one dose of the COVID-19 2024-25 vaccine.
The updated 2024-25 Moderna, Pfizer-BioNTech, and Novavax COVID-19 vaccines each follow a different dosage schedule outlined below:
2024-25 Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine
- Children age 6 months to 4 years who have never received a COVID-19 vaccine should get two doses of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine as soon as possible. The second dose should be given one month after the first.
- Children age 6 months to 4 years who have received one or more previous doses of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine should get one dose of the Moderna vaccine at least two months after their last dose.
- Children age 5 and older should get one dose of the updated Moderna COVID-19 vaccine to be considered up to date.
2024-25 Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine
- Children age 6 months to 4 years who have never received a COVID-19 vaccine should get three doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine as soon as possible. The first two doses are given three weeks apart, and they should get their third at least eight weeks after the second dose.
- Children age 6 months to 4 years who have received one dose of a Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine should get two doses of the updated Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine at least two months after their last dose. The first dose should be given at least three weeks after any previous dose, and the second dose should be administered at least eight weeks later.
- Children age 6 months through 4 years who have received two doses of a Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine should get one dose of the updated Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine at least eight weeks after their last dose.
- Children age 5 and older should get one dose of the updated Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine as soon as possible. Children age 5 and older who have been previously vaccinated with any COVID-19 vaccine should get one dose at least two months after their last dose.
2024-25 Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine
- Children age 12 years and older have never received a COVID-19 vaccine should get two doses of the updated Novavax vaccine as soon as possible. The second dose should be given three weeks after the first dose.
- Children who have received any number of previous COVID-19 vaccine doses should receive one dose of the updated Novavax vaccin at least two months after the last dose of any COVID-19 vaccine.
- Children under 12 years can NOT get the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine.
Recommendations for Children with Compromised Immune Systems
The CDC recommends that children age 6 months to 17 years who have moderately or severely compromised immune systems get vaccinated as outlined in the COVID-19 vaccination schedule, according to their age and immune status.
Medical and public health experts, including the CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics, recommend that children and adolescents ages 6 months and older get an updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine to help protect them from serious illness.
The vaccine is the best way to protect children from becoming severely ill or having long-lasting health impacts from COVID-19. While the risk of children and adolescents becoming severely ill or hospitalized is lower than the risk for adults, tens of thousands of children have been hospitalized with COVID-19, and the effects of the virus are unpredictable.
Yes, researchers and medical experts have worked to ensure the vaccine is safe for children and adolescents age 6 months to 17 years old. COVID-19 vaccines have continued to be proven safe and effective for children because of medical expert reviews of the clinical trial data and multi-year monitoring of thousands of vaccinated children.
Health agencies, such as the Food and Drug Administration and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, will continue to monitor the health data of clinical trial participants for two years after each vaccine is first administered to ensure their safety for the long term. As with all vaccines, these agencies will also continue monitoring the public’s health to ensure vaccine safety and effectiveness.
Yes, it is safe for children and adolescents to get a COVID-19 vaccine and other routine vaccines, including the flu vaccine, during the same visit. The CDC recommends that all children and adolescents remain up-to-date with routine vaccinations, and those age 6 months and older receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
For additional and more personalized information about pediatric vaccine administration options, caregivers should contact their child’s healthcare provider.
Side effects of the COVID-19 vaccines vary from person to person. They are typically mild and subside in a few days. Common side effects include soreness and swelling in the injection site, nausea, chills, fatigue, headaches, muscle pain, or fever.
The risk of a child having a serious adverse reaction to the COVID-19 vaccine is very low.
If you have questions about COVID-19 vaccines or how to protect your children from COVID-19, speak to your healthcare provider or pediatrician.
Schools and in-person learning
Mask Guidance
Talking Points
- Wearing a high-quality, well-fitting mask helps reduce the number of germs you breathe in or out. Alongside vaccination, testing, staying home when you’re sick, and washing your hands, masks are an important tool you can use to protect yourself and prevent others from getting sick.
- Studies show that high-quality, well-fitting masks can be effective at reducing the spread of respiratory viruses, such as COVID-19, flu, and RSV.
- The type of mask you wear matters. While all masks provide some level of protection, cloth masks generally offer lower levels of protection. Properly-fitted high filtration masks such as N95s, KN95s, and KF94s provide the best protection against respiratory viruses.
Updated October 25, 2024
Mask usage
Face masks help prevent the spread of COVID-19 when worn consistently and correctly. Here are considerations to help you choose a mask and ensure you get the best protection from it.
- Filtration: Different masks filter out different types of harmful particles. When choosing a mask, review the manufacturer’s filtration claims, including the percentage of filtration. The most effective masks typically provide at least 95% filtration.
- Fit: A mask can only filter particles that are trapped by the filter material. Ensure your mask forms a tight seal over your nose and mouth, because eliminating any gaps in the fit help improve protection.
Learn more about what to consider when choosing a face mask.
When to Wear a Mask
Exposure and Protecting Yourself
COVID-19 exposure or testing positive
When you might have a respiratory illness, like COVID-19, RSV, or the flu, there are steps you can take to return to health by monitoring your symptoms.
- If you have respiratory virus symptoms that are not explained by another cause, stay home and away from others (including people you live with who are not sick). Common symptoms include fever, chills, fatigue, cough, runny nose, and headache.
- You can go back to your normal activities when your symptoms are getting better overall for 24 hours and you have not had a fever (and are not using fever-reducing medication) for 24 hours.
- When you go back to your normal activities, take added precautions for the next 5 days, including taking steps for cleaner air, practicing good hygiene, wearing a mask, physical distancing, and/or testing when you will be around other people indoors. If you develop a fever or you start to feel worse, stay home and away from others again. You can return to your normal activities when your symptoms improve and you have not had a fever (and are not using fever-reducing medication) for at least 24 hours. Then take added precaution for the next 5 days.
Keep in mind that you still may be contagious even if you start to feel better. Preventing the spread of respiratory viruses is especially important to protect people who are at risk of severe illness.
Learn more about preventing the spread of respiratory viruses when you’re sick.
Travel
Before you travel, the CDC recommends that you get up to date with your age-appropriate vaccines for best protection against severe illness or hospitalization, including from respiratory illnesses like COVID-19, flu, and RSV.
You can also take other precautions to protect your health and the health of others.
- Test for respiratory infection before leaving, during the trip, and once you return. Testing is especially important before visiting people who are at risk of severe illness from a respiratory infection.
- If you test positive or become sick, stay home and away from other people. Follow strategies to prevent the spread of respiratory illness.
- Consider wearing a mask in crowded or poorly ventilated indoor spaces, like on public transportation, on airplanes, and in transport hubs.
- Frequently wash your hands and avoid touching your face (e.g., eyes, mouth, nose) when out in public.
- Avoid contact with people who are showing symptoms related to a contagious illness.
Travelers should continue to follow CDC guidance for traveling, along with state and local travel return requirements. After a trip, you should self-monitor for newly developed respiratory symptoms, and stay home and test if you develop symptoms.
Testing, Tracing, and Treatment
Talking Points
- You should test immediately if you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.
- There are various types of tests you can take, but having a supply of at-home tests will help you get results the fastest. Every household in the U.S. is eligible to order 4 free at-home COVID-19 tests. To find additional free and local testing options near you, search the U.S. Health and Human Services testing web page or visit your local health department’s website.
- Private insurance companies are not required to fully cover COVID-19 at-home rapid antigen tests and lab tests. If you are using government-sponsored health insurance or if you are uninsured, you may also pay out-of-pocket costs related to COVID-19 testing.
- In addition to testing when you feel sick, consider taking an at-home test before gathering with others. This is especially helpful to help protect people who are at risk for severe illness.
- While positive tests are accurate and reliable, a single at-home test cannot rule out infection. If you test negative for COVID-19 with an at-home test, FDA recommends:
- 2 additional negative at-home tests for individuals with symptoms
- 3 at-home tests for those without symptoms, performed 48 hours apart
- A single PCR test to confirm an at-home test result
- If you test positive for COVID-19, take steps to prevent the spread of the virus.
- Learn more about COVID-19 testing.
Updated October 29, 2024
Testing
Rapid antigen tests that are self-administered are also known as “self-tests,” “at-home tests,” or “over-the-counter” testing kits. When used correctly, these rapid antigen tests are highly reliable, easily accessible, and provide fast results. COVID-19 rapid antigen tests provide rapid results, can be taken in any location, and can be administered by a healthcare provider or yourself. They are a critical tool in controlling the spread of COVID-19.
Taking a COVID-19 test is an important way to protect yourself and others against respiratory illnesses. According to the CDC, they are especially helpful when:
- Respiratory viruses are causing a lot of illness in your community.
- You or the people around you were recently exposed to a respiratory virus, are sick, or are recovering from sickness.
- You or the people around you have risk factors for severe illness.
While positive tests are accurate and reliable, a single at-home test cannot rule out infection. If you test negative for COVID-19 with an at-home test, FDA recommends 2 additional negative tests for individuals with symptoms, or 3 antigen tests for those without symptoms, performed 48 hours apart. Instead of (or in addition to) repeat at-home testing, a single PCR test can be used to confirm an at-home test result.
If you test positive for COVID-19, take steps to prevent the spread of the virus.
Every household in the U.S. is eligible to order 4 free at-home COVID-19 tests. Rapid antigen tests are also available for purchase at many pharmacies, retailers, community sites, and online stores. If you plan on using an at-home rapid antigen test, you should have several tests readily available so that you can test more than once. Since test quantities vary by manufacturer, check how many are included in a kit to ensure you have enough tests on hand.
COVID-19 PCR and rapid antigen tests are also administered at clinics, pharmacies, health centers, community testing sites, or your doctor’s office. To find PCR and rapid antigen testing options near you, including free testing options, search the U.S. Health and Human Services “Test to Treat” testing web page or visit your local health department’s website.
Data and reporting
Antiviral drugs
There are several antiviral medications available to treat mild to moderate COVID-19 in people who are at risk for severe illness. This group includes older adults over 65, people who are unvaccinated or not up to date on their vaccines, and people with certain medical conditions, such as chronic lung disease, heart disease, or a weakened immune system.
Antiviral medications, such as Paxlovid, remdesivir, and Lagevrio prevent the virus from multiplying in someone’s body once they are infected. Medications to treat COVID-19 must be prescribed by a healthcare provider within 5-7 days of symptoms starting. If you are at higher risk for severe illness and think you have COVID-19, talk to your healthcare provider about testing and/or treatment right away, even if your symptoms are mild.
Patient assistance programs are available for people who are underinsured, uninsured, and who are on Medicare or Medicaid. These programs can lower out-of-pocket costs for some COVID-19 antiviral medications.
While antiviral drugs and other treatments are an important advancement, they are not 100% effective in reducing the risk of hospitalization or death from COVID-19, and they are not a substitute for getting vaccinated. Vaccination is the best defense against serious COVID-19-related illness and can prevent infection altogether.
Herd Immunity
Contact notification
If you have COVID-19, flu, or RSV, notifying people you have been in recent contact with can help control the spread of the virus within your community. Notifying your recent contacts helps control the spread of a respiratory virus by quickly informing people that they should take health precautions.
At-home test results can be safely and privately reported to MakeMyTestCount.org. After receiving test results, you can also contact your healthcare provider for more personalized information on your at-home recovery, treatment, and vaccine options.
COVID-19 + the flu shot
Yes, the CDC recommends that everyone age 6 months and older get an updated flu vaccine every flu season, which occurs in the U.S. in the fall and winter. The best time to get your flu vaccine is in September or October, before the flu is spreading in your community.
It is safe to receive a COVID-19 vaccine dose at the same time you receive a flu vaccine. Some people may choose to get each vaccine in a different limb to minimize possible discomfort. Ask your healthcare provider if you have any questions about getting either or both vaccines.
Emergency Declarations
End of the PHE
Vaccines
Talking Points
- According to a published study, COVID-19 vaccines saved an estimated 20 million lives worldwide in the first year they were available, and they continue to be the most effective way to prevent severe illness.
- COVID-19 vaccines are not only safe, but the most tested and monitored vaccines in U.S. history. Hundreds of millions of people have safely received a COVID-19 vaccine to date.
- COVID-19 vaccines continue to be the most effective way to prevent severe illness, hospitalization, and death.
- The risk of having an adverse reaction to the COVID-19 vaccine is extremely low – much lower than the risk of serious illness if infected by the virus.
Updated October 29, 2024
Additional Resources
The following messages can help you answer common questions about the COVID-19 vaccines. For more messaging guidance and vaccine communications resources, see below:
- PHCC Messaging Resources
- Vaccine Resource Hub: free resources to support individuals and organizations working to increase adult immunization across all communities, especially those experiencing racial and ethnic disparities (Partnership for Vaccine Equity, CDC, and CDC Foundation)
For more information about COVID-19 vaccines view the latest CDC recommendations.
Updated October 29, 2024
COVID-19 Vaccine Recommendations
Talking Points
- There are two types of approved 2024-25 COVID-19 vaccines: mRNA-based and protein subunit-based. Both vaccine types are safe and protect against serious illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19.
- Updated COVID-19 vaccines target currently circulating strains of COVID-19. Like the flu, the COVID-19 virus can change rapidly and produce new strains. These changes mean people need to update their defenses. mRNA vaccines easier to update vaccines to better match new strains than protein-based vaccines.
- The CDC advises that everyone age 6 months and older get an updated COVID-19 vaccine. The FDA has approved mRNA vaccines from Moderna or Pfizer-BioNTech for ages 6 months and older, and the non-mRNA vaccine from Novavax for people ages 12 years and older.
- Vaccination is the safest way to gain protection from COVID-19 because the risk of side effects from a vaccine is much lower than the risk of serious illness after infection.
- Both vaccine types follow the same rigorous development process to ensure safety and efficacy. The mRNA vaccines leveraged previous vaccine research and followed an expedited timeline for research and development without skipping any steps or compromising safety.
- COVID-19 continues to infect and hospitalize people every day in the U.S., especially older adults, anyone who is immunocompromised, and people with high-risk conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or cancer. The U.S. recently experienced the largest summer COVID-19 surge since 2022, and more cases are expected this fall and winter.
References
- COVID-19 Vaccine Basics | COVID-19 | CDC
- mRNA Vaccines: What to Know | CDC and IDSA
- Tracking Coronavirus Vaccinations Around the World | The New York Times
Additional Resources from PHCC
There are two types of COVID-19 vaccines used in the United States: mRNA vaccines and protein subunit vaccines. Both vaccine types teach our bodies how to protect against the COVID-19 virus without giving someone COVID-19.
The mRNA vaccine is not new; researchers have been studying it for decades. The mRNA vaccine doesn’t interfere with our DNA in any way. Instead, it teaches the body’s cells to create proteins that can trigger an immune response. These proteins tell the body to produce antibodies, which help the body fight infection and recognize a real COVID-19 infection.
While the mRNA vaccine teaches an individual’s body to create proteins, the protein subunit vaccine already contains proteins of the virus that causes COVID-19. The body understands that these proteins should not be there and responds by producing antibodies to fight off infection. Through this process, the body learns how to protect against the virus that causes COVID-19. Protein subunit vaccines have been approved and used for over 30 years.
While mRNA vaccines are easier to update to better match new variants of COVID-19 than protein-based vaccines, all updated COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. People should talk to a local pharmacist or their healthcare professional about the option that’s best for them.
Three COVID-19 vaccines have been approved for use in 2024-25; the mRNA vaccines from Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna and the non-mRNA vaccine from Novavax. All updated COVID-19 vaccines followed the same rigorous steps before they were approved for use and are consistently monitored for safety and effectiveness after release.
Since 2020, more than five billion people worldwide have safely received an mRNA vaccine. COVID-19 vaccines remain the most effective way to protect people from getting seriously ill, being hospitalized, and dying from COVID-19. People who stay up to date with vaccines are best protected from the impacts of COVID-19.
Added September 19, 2024
The updated 2024-25 COVID-19 mRNA vaccine targets the COVID-19 variants that are currently circulating. As the virus continues to circulate, it mutates over time. People’s immune systems are less likely to recognize new variants, which can lead to new infections — even for people who are vaccinated. The updated vaccines better target current strains and offer increased protection.
Everyone age 6 months and older should get the updated 2024-25 COVID-19 vaccine.
People who have previously received a COVID-19 vaccine should get the following doses of the 2024-25 COVID-19 vaccines to be considered up to date:
- Children age 6 months to 4 years should receive all recommended doses, including at least one dose of an updated COVID-19 vaccine.
- Children age 5 to 11 years should receive one dose of the 2024–25 Moderna COVID-19 vaccine OR 2024–25 Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. Children under 12 years can NOT get the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine.
- People age 12 years and older should receive one dose of the 2024–25 Moderna COVID-19 vaccine OR 2024–25 Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine OR 2024-25 Novavax COVID-19 vaccine. People age 12 years and older who have never been vaccinated and choose to get the Novavax vaccine need two doses to be up to date.
Those who have never received a COVID-19 vaccine should get the following doses of the 2024-25 COVID-19 vaccines to be considered up to date:
- Children age 6 months to 4 years should get two or three doses of the updated COVID-19 vaccine. The number of doses depends on which vaccine they receive.
- Children age 5 years to 11 years who are unvaccinated or received a COVID-19 vaccine before September 12, 2023, should get one updated Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine.
- People age 12 years and older should get either:
- 1 dose of the updated Pfizer BioNTech vaccine
- 1 dose of the updated Moderna vaccine
- 2 doses of the updated Novavax vaccine between 3-8 weeks apart
- People age 65 years and older who have not received any COVID-19 vaccine doses and choose to get Novavax should get two doses of the updated Novavax vaccine, followed by one additional dose of any updated 2023–2024 COVID-19 vaccine.
In 2023, more than 916,300 people were hospitalized due to COVID-19 and more than 75,500 people died from COVID-19. Health experts encourage COVID-19 vaccines and other precautions because they are highly effective at preventing hospitalization, severe illness, and death.
In the same way that health experts track the flu and other common illnesses, these experts will continue to monitor COVID-19 and recommend measures to stay safe and healthy.
CDC continues to advise the public to practice precautions such as receiving updated COVID-19 vaccines, testing, hand washing, social distancing, wearing a mask, or staying home and away from others if you are sick.
Booster doses
Yes, everyone age six months and older should get an updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine, whether or not they have been previously vaccinated against COVID-19. The updated vaccine can protect against new variants that are currently responsible for most infections in the United States.
If you recently had COVID-19, you will still need an updated vaccine but can consider delaying vaccination by three months.
No, all COVID-19 vaccines have been effective at reducing the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, or death. Getting a series of vaccine doses over an extended period of time – like months or years – is common for many vaccines. Over time. updated vaccine doses are needed to protect against new variants of a virus. The researchers who developed the COVID-19 vaccines continue to monitor how well the vaccines protect against new strains of the virus and this research has led to updated vaccines.
Development, safety, and effectiveness
Yes, COVID-19 vaccines have a very strong safety record.
- Hundreds of millions of people in the United States have safely received a COVID-19 vaccine.
- COVID-19 vaccines have been tested and monitored for safety more than any previous vaccine in U.S. history.
- CDC continues to monitor and provide updates on vaccine safety via the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS). Anyone can submit a report to VAERS.
COVID-19 vaccines were developed more quickly than most previous vaccines, but their development built upon decades of previous work.
The development process included the same rigorous safety reviews that are required for all new vaccines. Researchers were able to develop the vaccines quickly, safely, and effectively because the urgency of the pandemic created greater access to research funding, reduced bureaucratic obstacles, and encouraged unparalleled levels of government and industry cooperation.
As new variants appear, vaccine researchers will continue to update COVID-19 vaccines to provide the highest level of protection against the virus.
The risk of having a serious adverse reaction to the COVID-19 vaccine is very low—far lower than the risk of contracting COVID-19.
Severe adverse reactions after vaccination are extremely rare but can cause long-term health issues. Rare adverse events have been identified and investigated through the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS).
Side effects of the COVID-19 vaccines vary from person to person. They are typically mild and subside in a few days. Common side effects include soreness and swelling in the injection site, nausea, chills, fatigue, headaches, muscle pain, or fever.
COVID-19 vaccination is essential for everyone ages 6 months and older, including people who have already had COVID-19. Data show that recently sick people who do not get vaccinated at least two months after their recovery are more likely to get COVID-19 again than people who get vaccinated after their recovery. This means that the COVID-19 vaccines increase protection against each COVID-19 re-infection.
Getting a COVID-19 vaccine is a safer, more reliable way to build protection than getting infected. Side effects from a COVID-19 vaccine are often mild and subside within a few days, whereas COVID-19 infection can cause severe side effects, or lead to hospitalization or death.
Even if you recently had COVID-19 you should get an updated 2024-2025 vaccine, but can consider delaying vaccination by three months.
Read more about the benefits of getting vaccinated against COVID-19.
Pregnancy and fertility
Yes, CDC recommends COVID-19 vaccination for all people who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to get pregnant now or in the future. Data show that pregnant and recently pregnant people are at higher risk for severe COVID-19 infection, and vaccination is the best way to protect against severe illness.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends anyone who is pregnant or planning to become pregnant to get vaccinated against COVID-19.
No, research shows that a COVID-19 vaccine will not increase the risk of miscarriage or other pregnancy-related complications.
On the contrary, data show that a COVID-19 infection during pregnancy increases the risk of delivering a preterm or stillborn infant.
There has been extensive and ongoing safety monitoring of the COVID-19 vaccines, including before and during pregnancy. COVID-19 vaccination provides antibodies to the pregnant person and the baby, protecting them both from the increased risk of serious illness.
No, there is no evidence that fertility is impacted by any vaccine, including the COVID-19 vaccine.
Yes, data show that after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine, pregnant people pass their antibodies to their child. These antibodies have been found in umbilical cord blood, which means that the placenta has transferred protective immune cells from the vaccinated person to the infant. T Antibodies have also been found in breastmilk.
This transfer of antibodies to infants helps strengthen their vulnerable immune systems when they’re too young for vaccination. In both of these cases, during pregnancy and while breastfeeding, more data are needed to determine how much protection these antibodies may provide to the baby.
FDA approval
Johnson & Johnson vaccine
Novavax vaccine
Vaccine mandates
Yes, schools or employers may require vaccinations for attendance or employment, and those requirements vary by state and employer.
Schools: All states have vaccination requirements for children attending school and childcare facilities. Vaccination requirements help safeguard children by making sure they are protected when they begin school, where there is a higher potential for transmission of some diseases. Learn more about vaccine requirements by state.
Employers: On January 13, 2022, the Supreme Court ruled that the federal government cannot enforce a vaccine mandate for large businesses. Employers are still legally able to mandate COVID-19 vaccinations for employees.
While these requirements vary, the research remains the same: the best way to protect yourself from getting COVID-19 is to get vaccinated and practice precautionary measures like handwashing, social distancing, wearing a mask, and staying home when sick.
Variants
Talking Points
- Variants emerge as a result of naturally occurring mutations in viruses. For example, the flu virus changes often, which is why doctors recommend a flu shot each year.
- Scientists monitor all COVID-19 variants but may classify certain ones, like Omicron and Delta, as “variants of concern.” Scientists monitor these variants carefully to learn if they spread more easily, cause more severe cases than other variants, or evade vaccine protection.
- As long as COVID-19 spreads, mutations and new variants are expected to occur, and the best way to prevent the spread of COVID-19, including its variants, is to get vaccinated and boosted. Being vaccinated decreases the likelihood you will get sick and makes it less likely you will need hospitalization or die if you get infected. Increased vaccination rates around the world will decrease the likelihood that the coronavirus will mutate into other dangerous variants.
New COVID-19 variants
Variants emerge as a result of naturally occurring mutations in viruses. For example, the flu virus mutates often, which is why doctors recommend a new flu vaccine each year.
Researchers monitor all COVID-19 variants but may classify certain ones, like Omicron and Delta, as “variants of concern.” This is determined by which variants spread more easily, cause more severe cases than other variants, or evade vaccine protection.
As long as COVID-19 spreads, mutations and new variants are expected to occur. The best way to protect yourself against COVID-19 variants is to stay up to date with vaccines. Being vaccinated decreases the likelihood you will get sick and makes it less likely you will need hospitalization or die if you get infected.
Omicron
Seasonal Public Health Concerns
RSV
Respiratory syncytial virus, also called RSV, is a common respiratory virus that usually causes cold-like symptoms. Most people infected with RSV will experience mild illness and recover within one to two weeks. However, several people are at higher risk for severe illness, including: infants, young children, adults over 75, adults with chronic heart or lung disease, adults living in nursing homes and long-term care facilities, pregnant people, and people with weakened immune systems.
RSV season generally starts during the fall and peaks in the winter. RSV can spread in several ways, including direct contact with the virus, such as when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or by touching a contaminated surface with RSV. Symptoms of RSV may include runny nose, decrease in appetite, coughing, sneezing, fever, and wheezing. RSV can sometimes worsen existing medical conditions, or lead to serious conditions such as bronchiolitis, which causes lung inflammation, and pneumonia, a serious lung infection.
There are various tests available that confirm RSV infection, all of which are administered by a healthcare professional. Contact your local healthcare provider if you have questions about RSV infection, vaccination, or testing.
Yes. There are currently three available RSV vaccines for adults: Arexvy (from GSK), mResvia (from Moderna), and Abrysvo (from Pfizer). A single dose of RSV vaccine is recommended for the following people:
- All adults ages 75 and older
- Adults ages 60–74 at increased risk of severe RSV disease
- Pregnant people (Pfizer’s Abrysvo only) who are 32 to 36 weeks pregnant during the months of September through January to protect their babies from severe RSV
The best time to get vaccinated is in late summer or early fall, before RSV typically begins to spread. Pregnant people should consult with a local health provider to determine when to get vaccinated. The RSV vaccine is not an annual vaccine, and people who are already vaccinated do not need an additional dose.
Yes, an RSV antibody called nirsevimab is recommended for all babies under 8 months old, whose mothers did not receive an RSV vaccine during pregnancy. Eligible babies should receive a dose of nirsevimab shortly before the start of the RSV season in October, or within 1 week after birth if they are born between October and March.
Nirsevimab is also recommended for some children between 8 months and 19 months old who are at an increased risk for severe RSV. This group includes:
- Children who were born prematurely and have chronic lung disease
- Severely immunocompromised children
- Children with severe cystic fibrosis
- American Indian and Alaska Native children
Yes, the CDC recommends people who are 32 to 36 weeks pregnant during the months of September through January get an RSV vaccine. Pregnant people who meet this criteria should get a single dose of Abrysvo (from Pfizer) during weeks 32 through 36 of pregnancy to protect their babies from severe RSV disease. The vaccine triggers the development of antibodies that will provide protection for about the first six months of the baby’s life, when they’re extremely vulnerable to infections like RSV.
Pregnant people should contact their obstetrician or healthcare providers for more information.
Updated October 30, 2024
Tripledemic
Flu
Everyone age six months and older should get a flu vaccine every year.
This is especially important if you’re at higher risk of developing serious flu complications. These groups include:
- Adults 65 and older
- Adults with certain chronic health conditions, such as asthma, heart disease, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease
- Pregnant people
- Children younger than five years old, and especially those younger than two years old.
Yes. It is safe to get your flu vaccine and a COVID-19 vaccine the same day if you are eligible for both. It is safe and effective to receive multiple vaccines during the same appointment.
Contact your healthcare provider to learn more about your options for receiving the flu and COVID-19 vaccines on the same day.
You can also see our Tough Q&A on COVID-19 + the Flu Vaccine for more information.
Flu, RSV, and COVID-19 are all respiratory illnesses that can have varying degrees of severity, ranging from no symptoms to severe illness.
Symptoms such as fever, cough, fatigue, and runny or stuffy nose can be similar across all three viruses. You need specific testing to confirm if you are sick. You can test for COVID-19 and flu yourself, with an at-home rapid antigen test, or through a healthcare visit. RSV tests are only administered during a healthcare visit. Contact your healthcare provider if you have questions about testing and treatment, especially if you or your child are at high risk for complications from flu, RSV, or COVID-19.
Monkeypox
Monkeypox, now internationally referred to as Mpox, is an illness caused by the monkeypox virus. Common symptoms of Mpox include fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash that can look like pimples or blisters and may be painful or itchy. The rash may be on the face, the inside of the mouth, hands, feet, chest, genitals, or anus. Symptoms are usually mild or moderate and typically resolve within two to four weeks. Mpox is rarely fatal and can be treated with available antiviral medicines.
To learn more about MPox risks and precautions, contact your local health department and health provider for information about vaccine eligibility, accessibility, and testing.
Mpox spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact with the infection rash, scabs, or body fluids. It can also be spread through respiratory droplets during prolonged, face-to-face contact, or during intimate physical contact with areas around the anus, rectum, or vagina.
Any person can contract Mpox, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation. To date, the vast majority of the cases have been in men who have sex with men, and the general population is currently at low risk of contracting the infection.
The CDC recommends vaccination for people who have been in close contact with people who have Mpox. Eligibility for Mpox vaccination varies locally, but typically includes groups considered to be at high risk, including:
- People who have been in close physical contact with someone with Mpox in the past two weeks
- People whose jobs may expose them to Mpox, including some healthcare or public health workers
- Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men, transgender or nonbinary people who in the past six months have had one or more of the following:
- A new diagnosis of a sexually transmitted disease
- More than one sex partner
- Sex at a commercial sex venue
- Sex in association with a large public event in a geographic area where Mpox transmission is occurring
- Sexual partners of persons with the risks described above
- Persons who anticipate experiencing any of the above
The recommended vaccine to protect against monkeypox is Jynneos. The alternative to Jynneos is the ACAM2000 vaccine, but it is not recommended for people with weakened immune systems and has the potential for more side effects than Jynneos. Contact your local health department and health provider for information about vaccine eligibility, accessibility, and testing.
Measles (MMR)
Talking Points
- Measles is a highly contagious disease with serious possible complications including hospitalization, long-term illness, and death. Someone who is infected can spread the disease to other people before noticing any symptoms, especially in the four days before and after the rash develops.
- CDC data show that unvaccinated people have a very high likelihood, about 90% risk, that they will contract measles if exposed. Unvaccinated children who have not previously been infected are more likely to get infected and should avoid exposure.
- One in five children who contract measles will be hospitalized.
- One in 20 children who contract measles will develop pneumonia.
- One to three children who contract measles in 1,000 will die.
- CDC data show the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is highly effective. Individuals with a history of prior infection or vaccination who have received the full series of MMR vaccines are 97% protected and are unlikely to contract measles.
- It only takes a few days for antibodies to develop in response to the MMR vaccine. Within two to three weeks, the immune system is fully primed after vaccination.
- Measles infection can cause “immune amnesia” or immune suppression, effectively erasing the immune system’s memory and protection from other diseases. This immune weakening can last anywhere from weeks to years. This increases the risk of infection due to secondary bacterial and other infections, even if you have built immunity from a previous infection.
Measles is a highly contagious air-borne viral disease that can cause serious complications and death. Children under five years of age, adults over 20 years of age, pregnant people, and people with immunocompromised health are most at risk of measles complications.
Measles infection causes a rash to appear, alongside high fevers, diarrhea, coughing, runny nose, eye and ear infections. Someone who is infected can spread the disease to other people before noticing any symptoms, especially in the four days before and after the rash develops.
In severe cases, measles causes children’s brains to swell, leading to seizures, deafness, cognitive disability, and possibly death. About 1 in every 20 children with measles also contracts pneumonia, the top cause of pediatric death from measles, a serious respiratory illness. Measles even causes immune system weakening that can last weeks to years. A suppressed immune system increases the risk of infection due to secondary bacterial and other infections.
The most helpful actions you can take to prevent the spread of measles include isolating if you have a rash or believe you have been exposed, wearing a mask if around others, and contacting a healthcare provider immediately. Isolation is a key health precaution used to prevent people with confirmed or suspected measles from spreading the virus through respiratory droplets or cross-contaminated surfaces.
- If you become sick and have not been vaccinated against measles:
- Contact a healthcare provider immediately and alert them that you believe you were exposed to measles. Ask them about receiving an MMR vaccine and discuss treatment options.
- You should isolate for 21 days after your exposure.
- You should wear a mask and disinfect surfaces when near others to avoid the spread of germs in the air and on common household items.
- If you become sick and have been vaccinated against measles:
- Contact a healthcare provider immediately and alert them that you believe you were exposed to measles. Discuss your vaccine history with them as part of determining possible treatment options.
- You should quarantine to limit contact with others. You may be advised to stay home for four days if you develop the measles rash.
- You should wear a mask and disinfect surfaces when near others to avoid the spread of germs in the air and on common household items.
The CDC recommends that people of all ages protect themselves and their loved ones from measles, as well as vaccine-preventable diseases like mumps, rubella, and/or varicella (chickenpox), by getting the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) or measles-mumps-rubella-varicella (MMRV) vaccines. These are both two-dose vaccines traditionally given during early childhood when the immune system is weakest against disease.
Teens and adults should ensure they have completed the two-dose protocol to be best protected in the case of an outbreak. Two MMR vaccines are available for use in the United States: M-M-R II and PRIORIX vaccines.
If you are pregnant or believe you could be pregnant, contact your healthcare provider immediately to test for measles and discuss vaccine options. Pregnant people may be advised to wait to get the MMR vaccine until they are no longer pregnant.
The CDC recommends that caregivers of young children and adolescents protect their kids from the highly contagious measles virus by receiving the two-dose measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine.
Children over 6 months are eligible to get two doses of the MMR vaccine, which protects against all known strains of measles. Typically, the first dose should be provided when the child is 12 to 15 months of age and the second dose when 4 to 6 years of age. The MMR vaccine doses are typically provided years apart due to their long-lasting nature, however, children in high-risk settings can get their second dose sooner, so long as it is 28 days after the first dose.
Children who are traveling with family to overseas areas where measles is less controlled may require slightly different vaccine timing to provide the best protection while abroad. In most cases, children should complete the doses at least two weeks before traveling.
- If your child is 6 to 11 months of age, they should get one dose before traveling.
- If your child is 12 months of age or older, they should receive two MMR vaccine doses, spaced at least 28 days apart, before traveling.
Children who are unvaccinated, under-vaccinated, or unsure of their vaccination status should receive an MMR vaccine immediately. Unvaccinated people who have been exposed to measles can still receive the MMR vaccine up to 72 hours after exposure to help prevent or reduce the severity of an infection.
There is also another vaccine bundle available to children 12 months to 12 years old that can further protect your child’s developing immune system. This vaccine targets the measles-mumps-rubella-varicella (MMRV) viruses and protects your child from four highly contagious diseases.
For additional and more personalized information about pediatric vaccine administration options, caregivers should contact their child’s healthcare provider.
Measles is one of the most highly contagious diseases and is amongst the global leading causes of death in children, despite the existence of a highly effective and safe vaccine. Medical and public health experts, including the CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics, recommend that children and adolescents aged 6 months and older get an MMR vaccine to help protect them from serious illness. It only takes a few days for antibodies to develop in response to the MMR vaccine. Within two to three weeks, the immune system is fully primed after vaccination.
Since 1968, the United States measles vaccine has been the single most effective and safe approach to ensure children do not experience hospitalization, long-lasting health impacts, or death due to this viral disease.
Measles outbreaks are most common in communities where larger groups of people are unvaccinated. Measles outbreaks are on the rise again in the United States after reaching national eradication in 2000. This is a major public health concern given that about 1 in 5 unvaccinated people in the U.S. with measles require hospitalization.
Yes. Since the early 1950s researchers and medical experts have worked to ensure that the measles vaccines are safe for children age 6 months and older. Today, MMR vaccines are routine for every child and most who receive the vaccine do not have any serious complications afterward. Decades of clinical trial data and monitoring millions of vaccinated children have continued to prove the vaccine is safe and effective.
Yes. As early as the 1960s, research has shown that measles vaccines are highly effective in preventing disease and the complications caused by the disease after exposure. According to CDC data, receiving two doses of the MMR vaccine provides the highest level of protection, at 97% effectiveness. Even if only one dose is received, protection is still extremely high, at 93% effectiveness.
It only takes a few days for antibodies to develop in response to the MMR vaccine. Within two to three weeks, the immune system is fully primed after vaccination.
H5 Bird Flu
Talking Points
Current Situation
- From April through October 2024, 16 individuals in the United States with exposure to dairy cattle and poultry in Texas, Michigan, Colorado, and California have tested positive for H5 bird flu, also known as bird flu and avian influenza. One individual with no known exposure to dairy cattle and poultry in Missouri tested positive for H5 bird flu in August 2024. There have been 17 total positive H5 bird flu cases in 2024.
- One case reported in May 2024 presented with respiratory symptoms such as congestion, sore throat, and a cough, as well as “runny” and burning eyes. Six cases reported in March, April, July, and October 2024 presented as conjunctivitis (pink eye). Nine cases reported in July 2024 presented as conjunctivitis and six of those cases reported fever and chills. There is no information about symptoms for the August 2024 case. All individuals with positive H5 bird flu tests have recovered.
- Despite these recent human cases of H5 bird flu, the current outbreak is still considered an animal health issue at this time, primarily affecting wild birds, poultry, and some mammals.
- While the H5 bird flu outbreak is considered an animal health issue at this time, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is working with other state public health agencies to minimize risk of human exposure for the general population.
- Individuals with close and/or sustained unprotected contact with infected or dead birds, animals, or their contaminated environments are at a greater risk of H5 bird flu infection and can help reduce potential spread by wearing personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Avoid contact with poultry, wild birds, and other animals that appear ill or are dead, as well as contact with surfaces that may have been contaminated with their feces.
- Take proper safety precautions when handling poultry, meat, and eggs. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds before and after touching poultry, meat, and eggs, and keep your cooking surfaces clean.
- Common treatments for seasonal influenza, including Tamiflu® or other commercially available FDA-approved prescription treatment drugs, are also effective against H5 bird flu.
- The CDC, in collaboration with the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), is closely monitoring instances of H5 bird flu spread between animals and humans. If the number of infections from animals to people increases, health officials will alert the public and may change the level of risk assessment.
- The CDC has encouraged state public health agencies to work with agriculture officials and veterinarians to ensure response planning, including being able to quickly provide testing and treatment if H5 bird flu is suspected.
General Background
- Humans and animals are susceptible to influenza, commonly known as the flu. Influenza viruses can cause contagious respiratory illness in humans and animals. There are several different types or strains of the influenza virus. These influenza strains evolve over time and may impact humans and animals differently.
- H5 bird flu is a strain of avian influenza, also known as bird flu. H5 bird flu spreads more rapidly than other virus strains and is highly infectious in bird populations. Bird flu and avian influenza are general terms that may encompass different strains.
- While H5 bird flu outbreaks have increased in wild bird populations, and infections have been reported in some mammals including dairy cows, there have only been sporadic human infections since 1997. To date, there is no evidence of sustained human-to-human transmission.
- Past human infections resulted from close contact with infected birds, and to a lesser extent with other infected animals. Based on earlier H5 viruses and the recent circulating viruses, the current risk of infection for the general public is low.
Sources
- https://www.cdc.gov/flu/avianflu/avian-flu-summary.htm
- https://www.cdc.gov/flu/avianflu/hpai/hpai-interim-recommendations.html
- https://www.cdc.gov/flu/avianflu/h5/worker-protection-ppe.htm
- Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A (H5N1) Virus Infection Reported in a Person in the U.S. | CDC Online Newsroom | CDC
Updated on October 10, 2024
H5 bird flu is a viral disease that primarily infects poultry (e.g., chickens, turkey, ducks) and other wild birds. H5 bird flu is particularly contagious in bird populations and has resulted in the deaths of millions of birds in the United States. There have been 17 positive cases of H5 bird flu reported in humans in the United States in 2024.
H5 bird flu symptoms are similar to the seasonal influenza virus. Possible symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, eye infections, difficulty breathing, pneumonia, and severe respiratory disease. If you have had close and/or sustained unprotected contact with infected birds or animals or their contaminated environments, monitor for these symptoms for 10 days after your last exposure. If you have these symptoms, speak with your healthcare provider about the length of your at-home isolation before returning to your normal activities. The same diagnostic tools that are used to detect seasonal influenza viruses like the flu can also detect H5 bird flu.
H5 bird flu spreads to humans when enough virus gets into a person’s eyes, nose, or mouth or is inhaled from an infected bird or animal. There is no evidence of sustained person-to-person spread of H5 bird flu.
While the risk of H5 bird flu is low, everyone should take the following precautions:
- Avoid contact with poultry, wild birds, and other animals that appear ill or are dead, as well as contact with surfaces that may have been contaminated with their feces.
- Avoid uncooked or undercooked poultry, meat, and eggs.
- Drink pasteurized milk that has been treated to kill harmful bacteria.
- Cook poultry, meat, and eggs to the right internal temperature to kill bacteria and viruses, including H5 viruses.
- Wash your hands and surfaces thoroughly before and after handling poultry, meat, and eggs.
People with close and/or sustained unprotected contact with infected birds or animals or their contaminated environments are at a greater risk of infection. To reduce the spread, those with known exposure to H5 virus-infected birds or other animals should isolate themselves away from others and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen. People who work with or have recreational exposures to infected animal populations, maintain backyard birds/poultry, and engage in hunting should consider taking these additional protections:
- Avoid contact with poultry, wild birds, and other animals that appear ill or are dead, as well as contact with surfaces that may have been contaminated with their feces.
- Wear personal protective equipment (PPE):
- Disposable outer garments with long sleeves and a sealed apron
- Disposable gloves or heavier work gloves that can be disinfected
- Properly-fitted high filtration masks such as N95s, KN95s, and KF94s
- Safety goggles and disposable head coverings
- Disposable shoe covers or boots that can be cleaned and disinfected.
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub after contact with birds and mammals.
- Avoid touching your skin with gloved hands.
On April 24, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that traces of H5N1 bird flu had been detected in about 20 percent of milk samples from U.S. grocery stores, and reemphasized that the commercial milk supply of pasteurized milk is still safe for consumption.
The pasteurization process inactivates harmful bacteria and viruses, which means that the found traces of H5 bird flu are not live or infectious virus. Many studies have shown that pasteurization is effective at inactivating similar influenza viruses.
According to experts, finding traces of the virus in this percentage indicates that the H5 bird flu outbreak in cows is larger than originally thought. USDA has announced mandatory testing for bird flu for any dairy cows moving across state lines. Only milk from healthy animals is authorized to be sold, and pasteurization is required for any milk entering interstate commerce.
FDA will continue to monitor the milk supply and has cautioned against the consumption of raw or unpasteurized milk or milk products.
Additionally, to keep the beef supply safe, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has conducted testing of ground beef samples from retail outlets in states where cows have tested positive for the virus. To date, no H5 virus has been found in any of the tested samples. Testing will continue and only meat that has passed USDA inspection can be sold in U.S. stores and restaurants.
Note: When communicating with the public about the H5 bird flu outbreak and the safety of the milk and beef supplies, public health officials should emphasize that their information is based on what is known to date, and that health guidance could change as more information becomes available. Continued monitoring for any further circulation of the virus by federal, state, and local officials is critical to protecting the public’s health.
Dengue Virus (DENV)
Talking Points
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently issued a Health Alert Network (HAN) Health Advisory about an increased risk of dengue virus (DENV) infections in the United States in 2024.
- Countries in North and South America have reported more dengue cases in 2024 than in any other year on record.
- Puerto Rico, where dengue virus is endemic, declared a public health emergency in March 2024. There have also been higher-than-expected reports of dengue cases among U.S. travelers from January 1 – June 24, 2024.
- As global temperatures increase, mosquitoes that spread dengue may reach new areas and increase dengue virus transmission. There may be increased cases in non-endemic areas of the U.S. where there have been occasional local transmissions in the last two years, including Florida, Hawaii, Texas, Arizona, and California.
- With increases in domestic cases of dengue and travel to tropical and subtropical regions where warmer and wetter weather increases dengue transmission, healthcare providers should:
- Be prepared to recognize, diagnose, manage, and report suspected dengue cases to public health authorities.
- Consider dengue virus testing for people with a fever who have traveled to areas with frequent or continuous dengue transmission.
- People who live in or travel to areas with continuous or frequent dengue transmission, such as Puerto Rico, American Samoa, the U.S. Virgin Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau, can protect themselves by using Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved repellents and wearing protective clothing like loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts, and pants.
Sources
- Increased Risk of Dengue Virus Infections in the United States | CDC Health Alert Network
- About Dengue | CDC
- Preventing Mosquito Bites | CDC
- Dengue and Severe Dengue | WHO
Added July 12, 2024
Dengue virus (DENV) is a common virus spread by the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes.
Many people who become infected may not experience symptoms, but for those who do, symptoms can begin five to seven days after exposure and can include fever accompanied by nausea, vomiting, rash, muscle aches, joint pain, bone pain, or headache. Symptoms typically resolve between 1-2 weeks. A person should consider being tested for dengue infection if they 1.) exhibit these symptoms and 2.) live in or have traveled to areas with frequent or continuous dengue transmission in the last 14 days.
Repeat or serious infections may result in hospitalizations or death.
Dengue is transmitted to humans through bites of infected Aedes mosquitoes. Dengue transmissions typically peak during warmer and wetter months.
Six U.S. territories and freely associated states are classified as areas with frequent or continuous dengue transmission: Puerto Rico, American Samoa, the U.S. Virgin Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau. People who live in or travel to these areas with frequent or continuous dengue transmission are at increased risk of dengue virus and can protect themselves by:
- Using repellants approved by the Environmental Protection Agency
- Wearing protective clothing like loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts, and pants
- Seeking medical care if fever or other dengue symptoms occur
To date, one vaccine (QDenga) has been approved and licensed in select countries. However, it is only available for people ages 6 to 16 years old who live in high transmission settings. Additional vaccines are currently being evaluated.
