The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) is calling on Wisconsinites to make a plan to get vaccinated against COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses this fall. The reminder comes as the updated COVID-19 vaccine has received federal regulatory approval, a new annual flu vaccine is available, and a vaccine and antibody to prevent respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is on the market. With cooler temperatures, the risk of respiratory illnesses rises but there are now more tools available to keep people healthy.

?Each fall and winter, viruses like flu, RSV, and now COVID-19, begin to circulate. While they may only cause mild illness for some, they can have a severe impact on our health, causing serious illness and even death. They can also have a severe impact on our lives, causing missed days of school or work,? said Kirsten Johnson, Secretary-designee of the Wisconsin Department of Health Services. ?Fortunately, we have vaccines and treatments that can now help us protect ourselves and those around us from each of these illnesses. So, as we head into fall, we ask all Wisconsinites to protect yourselves and your families by making a plan to get up to date on the vaccines that can help keep you and those around you healthier this season.???