Respiratory Virus Season 2025–26 Flu, COVID-19 & RSV Vaccine

The 2025–26 Respiratory Virus Season Has Begun: What Everyone Needs to Know About Flu, COVID-19, and RSV Vaccines

Date: October 20, 2025
By: M. Azhan | Prime Bulletin Health

As temperatures drop across the Northern Hemisphere, health experts are warning that the 2025–26 respiratory virus season could bring a rise in COVID-19, influenza (flu), and RSV infections.
Medical authorities worldwide are encouraging everyone to get updated vaccines to help prevent serious illness, hospitalizations, and community outbreaks.

This year’s updated vaccines — especially for flu and RSV have been reformulated to match the most common circulating strains. The new COVID-19 boosters are designed to target emerging Omicron sub-variants seen globally.

Updated Vaccines for the 2025–26 Season

1. Flu Vaccine (Trivalent Formula)

Protects against three major flu strains predicted for 2025–26.
Recommended for everyone aged six months and older.
Especially important for older adults, young children, people who are pregnant, and healthcare or frontline workers.

2. COVID-19 Booster 2025

Updated mRNA boosters built to protect against Omicron-descendant variants.
Recommended if it’s been six months or more since your last COVID-19 shot.

3. RSV Vaccine for Adults & Pregnant People

Recommended for adults aged 65+ and those 50–64 with chronic or underlying conditions.
Pregnant people can receive a dose to protect their newborns during early life.

Why Getting Vaccinated Matters

Health experts emphasize that multiple respiratory viruses often circulate together, increasing the risk of co-infections.
Getting vaccinated against flu, RSV, and COVID-19 helps lower your risk of severe illness and hospitalization — and supports healthier communities.

“Vaccination isn’t just personal protection — it’s community protection,” says Dr. Ahmed Malik, public health specialist.
“It helps reduce transmission, saves healthcare resources, and keeps seasonal outbreaks under control.”

Who Should Prioritize Vaccination

Older adults (65+)
Children under 5 years
Pregnant people
Individuals with chronic illnesses (heart, lung, diabetes, or kidney conditions)
Frontline and healthcare workers
People with weakened immune systems

(If you’re unsure about which vaccines you need, speak with a qualified healthcare provider.)

Pakistan Health Advisory

According to Pakistan’s National Institute of Health (NIH), vaccination drives for flu and COVID-19 boosters are being expanded across Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, and Peshawar.
Citizens are encouraged to check local health centers, clinics, or private hospitals for updated vaccine availability.

How to Protect Yourself This Season

Get vaccinated before virus activity peaks (October–December).
Wear a mask in crowded or enclosed spaces.
Wash hands frequently and maintain good ventilation.
Stay hydrated, eat well, and rest if you feel unwell.
Seek medical help promptly if you experience high fever or breathing difficulty.

Global Health Perspective

The World Health Organization (WHO) and U.S. CDC report that combined infections (such as flu + COVID-19 or RSV + flu) are becoming more common.
Both agencies emphasize the importance of early vaccination to reduce complications and keep hospitals functioning smoothly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the respiratory virus season?
It’s the period from October to March when viruses like influenza, RSV, and COVID-19 spread more easily due to colder weather and indoor gatherings.

2. Which vaccines should I get this year?
Experts recommend the flu shot, updated COVID-19 booster, and RSV vaccine (for older adults or people who are pregnant).

3. Can I get all vaccines at once?
Yes. Many healthcare providers allow flu and COVID-19 shots during the same visit, while RSV may require a separate appointment.

4. Are these vaccines available in Pakistan?
Yes. Flu and COVID-19 vaccines are widely available at public and private healthcare facilities. RSV vaccine rollout has begun in major cities.

5. Why is vaccination still important if COVID-19 cases are low?
Because immunity fades over time, and new variants can appear — vaccination helps ensure strong protection all year round.

6. When is the best time to get vaccinated?
Get your shots before late November, so your body builds immunity ahead of the peak infection months.

Final Thoughts

The 2025–26 respiratory virus season will challenge healthcare systems, but vaccines remain our most effective defense.
By staying up to date on vaccinations and following preventive measures, everyone — regardless of age or background — can help protect themselves, their families, and their communities from serious illness.

Stay informed with Prime Bulletin Health, your trusted source for verified health news, vaccine updates, and expert medical insights.