CT DPH urges families to prepare for respiratory virus season with flu vaccine, conversations with their healthcare providers

HARTFORD, Conn. — The Connecticut Department of Public Health (CT DPH) is encouraging residents to take steps now to protect themselves and their loved ones as respiratory virus season begins. Flu, COVID-19, and RSV are highly contagious viruses that typically begin circulating more widely in the fall and winter. Connecticut surveillance data from recent seasons shows flu activity rising sharply around December. Getting vaccinated in October allows the body about two weeks to build protection before those increases.

"Every respiratory season, we see how much a little preparation helps families stay healthy, and that preparation starts with a conversation," said Commissioner Manisha Juthani, M.D. "Flu vaccine is our strongest protection against severe flu illness, and we recommend it for everyone six months and older. This year, many states are seeing marked rises in flu cases already, Connecticut is not far behind. For COVID-19, we recommend vaccination for children under two and for people at higher risk. For everyone else, we encourage you to talk with your healthcare provider about which vaccines are right for you."

DPH endorses recommendations for the 2026-27 season aligned with evidence and guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP); and the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG);

Flu vaccine: DPH recommends an annual flu vaccine for everyone 6 months of age and older.
COVID-19 vaccine: DPH recommends COVID-19 vaccination for children under two years old and for people in high-risk populations. Everyone else is encouraged to talk with their healthcare provider about which seasonal vaccinations are right for them.
RSV vaccine: DPH recommends RSV immunizations to protect infants either by vaccination of pregnant patients during week 32-26 or pregnancy starting Sept 1 through the end of RSV season or administration of monoclonal antibodies to babies entering or born during RSV season. DPH recommends RSV vaccination for people ages 60-74 at high risk and everyone ages 75 and older, who have not received an RSV vaccine before

Where to Get Vaccinated

DPH and the CT Immunization Coalition have partnered with local health departments and Federally Qualified Health Centers to publish a statewide list of flu clinics, including clinic dates and homebound services.

New This Year: "Protect Who Matters Most"

This year, DPH is taking a new approach to vaccine education. The Protect Who Matters Most campaign brings a fresh, modern twist to public health education with a four-part animated video series inspired by the spirit of classic Schoolhouse Rock. Featuring original songs, colorful animation and relatable messages, the series is designed to help parents and caregivers feel informed, empowered and confident when it comes to childhood vaccines.

The campaign includes four short videos, each also available as a sing-along version:

The campaign also offers free downloadable posters for healthcare practices, clinics, community organizations, and other public spaces, along with the Connecticut Immunization Guide. Videos are also available in Spanish.

"Parents and caregivers are the experts on the people they love, and we want them to feel empowered to ask their doctor any question about vaccines," said Commissioner Juthani. "Asking questions is not a sign of doubt. It's how families make good decisions. These videos are designed to support those conversations in clinic exam rooms and around kitchen tables."

All campaign videos and resources are available here.

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