PENNSYLVANIA, USA — As the leaves change, so does the calendar--to the next batch of seasonal illnesses and vaccines.
COVID-19 and influenza (flu) cases often rise this time of year as the weather turns colder and children cram back into the classroom.
Dr. Vinitha Moopen with WellSpan Health says getting vaccinated against these illnesses each year can help protect kids' health. Central Pennsylvania doctors are already seeing cases of respiratory illnesses start to rise.
"We've had a couple cases of pneumonia and, you know, a lot of kids just out for the day or two because they just don't feel well because they've picked up something at school," Dr. Moopen said.
The COVID-19 and flu shots are available now at WellSpan offices. They are separate shots that can be administered in the same visit to anyone aged 6 months and older who is eligible for the vaccines.
Dr, Moopen says it's likely perfectly healthy to receive the vaccines even if you are feeling a bit under the weather.
"If you have a fever, I wouldn't get a vaccine. But if you don't have a documented infection or you don't have, you know, the flu or have COVID, it's fine," the physician said. "I would speak to your doctor and then make that decision."
Dr. Moopen says this year's COVID-19 vaccines are essentially the same as the original, just tweaked to better combat newer variants.
"The Pfizer and the Moderna are still our mRNA vaccines for COVID," she said. "They're trying to make them as close to the current strain as possible, so it is different in that respect because it is a different strain, but otherwise it's pretty much the same."
It is still a little early in the season to be thinking about respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), but Dr. Moopen says vaccines will be available for pregnant mothers and children up to 8 months old in November.
Dr. Moopen says concerned parents can always talk to their doctors, nurses and pediatricians about any worries they may have for their child. If your kid needs to be seen by a doctor or receive a vaccine, call the office of your choice or click here to make an appointment with WellSpan.