Flu, Covid-19, RSV: Which vaccines do you need?

By: RAFEENA BACCHUS, M.D.

As fall arrives, it’s not just time for cozy sweaters and holiday preparations—it’s also a critical time to think about seasonal health protection. This year, the flu, COVID-19, and RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) vaccines are essential tools to keep you and your loved ones safe.

At Maryland Primary Care Physicians (MPCP), we make vaccination easy with convenient scheduling through our Patient Portal and supportive care from our dedicated team. Let’s walk through what you need to know this season to stay healthy.

Why Get Vaccinated for Flu, COVID-19, and RSV?

These three viruses—flu, COVID-19, and RSV—are known for causing severe illness, especially in young children, older adults, and those with chronic health conditions. Vaccination offers a proven way to reduce your risk, lessen symptoms, and protect your community. Here’s how each vaccine can help:

• Flu: Protects against the most common flu strains, reducing severity and risk of hospitalization.
• COVID-19: Protects against the latest variants, helping avoid severe symptoms and complications.
• RSV: Especially important for seniors and infants, who are at higher risk of RSV complications.

At MPCP, we focus on preventive care and compassionate support for all patients. Our experienced providers are here to help you make informed vaccination decisions and answer any questions along the way.

Schedule an appointment to get vaccinated in your patient portal. 

Who Should Get Vaccinated? CDC Recommendations

The CDC offers specific guidance on who should get each vaccine, based on age, health status, and other risk factors:

Flu Vaccine

• Recommended for: Everyone 6 months and older.
• Especially Important for: Adults 65+, children under 5, people with chronic health conditions, and pregnant women.
• When to Get It: Early fall, as flu season peaks in winter.

COVID-19 Vaccine

• Recommended for: Everyone 6 months and older.
• New Variant Coverage: The latest COVID-19 vaccines are designed to protect against current variants, like EG.5.
• When to get it: Fall, with annual boosters available for continued protection.

RSV Vaccine

• Recommended for: Adults 60+ (especially those with chronic conditions like heart or lung disease, diabetes, or weakened immunity).
• Additional Protection: For infants at high risk, long-acting antibody treatments are also available.

When to Get It: Any time during RSV season, which often overlaps with flu season in fall and winter.

Can You Get All Three Shots Together?

You may be able to streamline your vaccination schedule by getting the flu and COVID-19 vaccines at the same time. However, because the RSV vaccine is newer, health experts recommend receiving it separately. Here’s what you should know:

• Flu & COVID-19: Generally safe to get these vaccines together. Just let your healthcare provider know so they can guide you.
• RSV: Consult with your MPCP provider if you’re considering getting this vaccine with others, especially if you have a health condition.

Your MPCP provider will work with you to plan the best timing and combination for these vaccines, tailored to your health needs and lifestyle.

FAQs: About Flu, COVID-19, and RSV Vaccines

• Why do I need these vaccines every year? Viruses like flu and COVID-19 mutate, creating new strains each year, and immunity from previous vaccinations fades over time. Annual vaccines ensure you’re protected against the latest strains
• Are these vaccines safe to take together? Yes, the flu and COVID-19 vaccines can usually be taken at the same time, saving you a trip while keeping you protected. If you’re also getting the RSV vaccine, your doctor may advise taking it separately for the best immune response.
• What are the possible side effects? Most people experience mild side effects like soreness at the injection site, fatigue, or a low fever, which usually resolve within a day or two and are signs that your body is building protection.

Why Choose MPCP for Your Vaccination?

At MPCP, we make it simple to manage your health. Our Patient Portal lets you:

• Schedule appointments online for all your healthcare needs, including vaccinations.
• Access your medical records anytime, so you stay informed about your vaccination history and health.
• Message your provider directly, a helpful option if you have follow-up questions or health concerns after your visit.

Our team emphasizes a personalized approach to healthcare. We’re here to listen to your concerns, answer questions, and deliver high-quality, compassionate care.

Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones

Don’t wait — get ahead of the season by scheduling your flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines with MPCP today. Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to stay healthy, and MPCP is here to make the process easy and comfortable whether you’re scheduling for yourself or a loved one.

Take Action Today: Contact your MPCP healthcare provider or log into the Patient Portal to schedule your vaccines and ensure you and your family are prepared for a healthy season!

Dr. Rafeena Bacchus sees patients at MPCP’s Columbia office. She received her medical degree from SUNY at the Buffalo School of Medicine and completed her residency program in Internal Medicine at the University of Maryland. She is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine.