Seasonal influenza circulates from the beginning of fall through the early spring in the United States, but experts are warning of an earlier and more severe season this year. Given the likely surge in COVID-19 cases over the winter, coupled with a severe RSV season, there are serious concerns of a possible “tripledemic” - that could put excess strain on pediatric health care systems and increase morbidity. Dr. Suchitra Rao discussed the importance of receiving this year’s influenza vaccine to protect our communities as well as:

• An update of this season’s influenza vaccine options and recommendations
• The impact of COVID-19 on the influenza season and the importance of receiving this year’s influenza vaccine
• Strategies to optimize high influenza vaccination coverage rates