Infections from viruses including flu, COVID-19, and RSV surge in the fall and winter. Some viruses, such as the virus that causes COVID-19, survive longer and spread faster in colder temperatures. Cold, dry air may also make it harder for the body to fight off illness, and people tend to spend more time indoors—with less ventilation—in the fall and winter, making it easier for viruses to pass from person to person.

If you are a caregiver for an older adult, or help them access medical services or make health decisions, you play an important role in promoting the lifesaving benefits of flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines.

The need to help people understand the dangers of these viruses is behind LeadingAge’s collaboration with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on Risk Less. Do More., a research-based campaign offering messages and materials to help members inform and protect their communities. The campaign, which launched during National Immunization Awareness Month in August 2024, reaches people who are at higher risk for serious illness, including adults ages 65 and older. HHS recently provided updated social media assets and additional communications resources, which LeadingAge members can access as part of our member toolkit. Visit our Risk Less. Do More. webpage to learn more about this collaboration and how you can help protect your community.