Parades, football, and full bellies — families are eagerly counting down the days until Thanksgiving. But if you’re traveling, you might experience more than just food comas this holiday. This season often brings illnesses due to increased respiratory illnesses, including the flu, COVID-19, and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus). These viruses are often spread more easily in crowded indoor spaces, making it especially important for families to protect themselves and their loved ones. One of the best ways to do that is by getting vaccinated.

Vaccination Timing

Time is important, whether cooking a turkey or scheduling vaccinations. If you missed the early fall push for flu and COVID-19 vaccines, don’t worry; it’s not too late. Health experts recommend getting vaccinated ahead of the holidays, as respiratory viruses tend to spread more rapidly with increased travel and indoor gatherings. The CDC emphasizes that the two-week period leading up to Thanksgiving is ideal for getting your flu and COVID-19 shots. This is because the body needs time to build immunity, which takes about two weeks.

COVID-19 cases tend to rise in the winter, starting around Thanksgiving and peaking in January. This winter surge often coincides with the start of flu season, which typically begins in November or December and peaks in January or February. As both viruses spread simultaneously, it can become confusing because they share similar symptoms. If not treated, this could result in severe illness, especially for those who are unvaccinated.

Why Vaccination Matters

Both COVID-19 and the flu can be serious, particularly for young children and pregnant women. The CDC urges everyone aged six months and older to get an updated COVID-19 vaccine and a flu shot. These vaccines can offer protection against severe illness, hospitalization, and death. While they may not prevent every illness, they have been proven to reduce the severity of infections.

According to the CDC, only 45% of adults received a flu vaccination last year, and just 23% received a COVID-19 shot. Given that COVID-19 still claimed more lives than the flu last year, it’s clear that this vaccination should be part of your routine immunization schedule.

The Importance of RSV Vaccination

It’s not only the flu and COVID-19 that impact the holidays. Another virus to be aware of is RSV, which can be particularly dangerous for young children. RSV is known for causing severe respiratory illnesses and hospitalizations each winter. The CDC recommends an RSV vaccine for those 75 and older and those aged 60–74 at increased risk. Pregnant women are also encouraged to get vaccinated to protect their newborns during the fall and winter months. Data shows that only 24% of seniors received the RSV vaccine last year, highlighting the need for more people to seek this protective measure.

Vaccine Options:

Flu Vaccines: This year’s flu vaccine targets two Type A strains and one Type B strain. For people 65 and older, high-dose shots and special immune-boosted options are available.

COVID-19 Vaccines: The updated COVID-19 shots offer enhanced protection as this strain continues to evolve and are available to everyone aged six months and older.

RSV Vaccines: The RSV vaccine is recommended for older adults, pregnant women, and those at increased risk. It’s a one-time shot that protects for the season.

Put Your Family First This Holiday Season

Thanksgiving is a special time that marks the beginning of the holiday season and the start of cooler weather. As you prepare the turkey, take a moment to prepare your body for the illnesses that circulate during winter. Getting vaccinated is quick and easy, and it only takes a little time to help reduce the risk of severe illness and hospitalizations this season. This holiday, focus on making memories, not dealing with illness.

Sources:

CDC: Influenza, Updated COVID-19, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccination Coverage Among Adults — United States, Fall 2023

CDC: Immunizations for Respiratory Viruses Prevention

John Hopkins Medical: COVID-19 Vaccine: What You Need to Know

You might be noticing people around you are getting sick, especially children. The cause is the flu, with the CDC reporting a slight increase in cases among kids and confirming the first pediatric flu-related death of the 2024–25 season. It’s still early in the season, so parents need to stay informed about the risk the flu poses to children and the steps they can take to keep their families safe. While national flu activity remains relatively low, some early trends are worth noting.

Pediatric Flu Trends and Vaccination Gaps

It’s a tragic milestone for the CDC to report this season’s first influenza death. This comes after a record-breaking 200 pediatric deaths in the previous season, many of which occurred in children who were not fully vaccinated.

Flu vaccination rates among children have declined, with only 53.9% vaccinated last season. This is a drop compared to pre-pandemic years. This decline is concerning because the flu vaccines have been shown to reduce the risk of medical visits by two-thirds and cut the risk of hospitalization in children in half.

How Parents Can Take Action

It’s recommended that everyone aged six months and older receive their annual flu shot by the end of October. According to the CDC it’s important for:

● Young children: Kids up to 8 years old receiving their first flu shot may need two doses for full protection.

● Older adults: Those over 65 should consider a higher-dose flu vaccine for better protection.

How the Flu Vaccine Works

The flu vaccine is administered in the arm. Once it enters the body, it stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies, proteins that help the body recognize and fight the flu viruses. These antibodies take up to two weeks to take effect and protect against the specific strains of flu viruses included in the vaccine.

The flu vaccine is designed annually to target the influenza viruses that research indicates will be most common during the upcoming flu season. There are different types of flu vaccines, such as inactivated vaccines (made from killed viruses), live attenuated vaccines (containing weakened viruses), and recombinant vaccines (made without using the flu virus itself).

This vaccine undergoes several tests before it’s given to the public. Its yearly effectiveness can range from 40% to 60% when matched to the circulating strains. While the vaccine may not always prevent infection, it significantly reduces the severity of illness, the risk of complications like hospitalization, and the likelihood of flu-related deaths.

The Bigger Picture

Flu activity tends to rise during fall and winter, peaking between December and February. However, the virus circulates year-round, and its impact varies seasonally. Over the past decade, the flu has caused up to 41 million illnesses, 710,000 hospitalizations, and 51,000 deaths annually.

Parents should note that the flu is not the only respiratory virus circulating. Several other viruses, such as RSV and COVID-19 get thrown into the mix at this time of year.

Tips to Keep Your Family Healthy

● Get vaccinated: Flu shots are widely available at doctor’s offices, pharmacies, and clinics.

● Stay vigilant: Encourage good hand hygiene and keep children home if they’re unwell.

● Know the signs: Watch for flu symptoms like fever, chills, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, and fatigue.

The flu can be unpredictable, but recognizing the signs early and taking preventive measures can help you manage the risks and avoid complications. Vaccinating your children, whether it reduces their risk by 40% or 60%, can make a significant difference as they participate in more indoor activities and interact with other children. With the flu season in full swing, we all must take responsibility for preventing the spread of illness, especially as we prepare to gather with family and friends during the upcoming holidays.

Sources:

CDC: Flu and Children

CDC: New Grim Milestone for Flu Pediatric Deaths Set

CDC: Flu Burden

CDC: Flu Deaths in Children Last Season Reach 199, Matching Record

In 2023, tuberculosis (TB) cases saw a significant rise, with new diagnoses reaching an estimated 8.2 million, up from 7.5 million cases the previous year, according to a recent report by the World Health Organization (WHO). This marks the highest number of TB cases since monitoring began in 1995. This rise has now put TB, once again, as the leading cause of death from infectious diseases, surpassing COVID-19 in 2023.

TB Trends in the U.S.: Case Rise Following COVID-19 Disruptions

The United States has experienced a resurgence in TB cases, with a 16% increase in 2023, marking the third consecutive year of rising diagnoses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 9,615 cases, the highest since 2012. Previously, TB had been on the decline for nearly three decades, reaching a low of 7,171 cases in 2020. A majority of cases found in the U.S. cases come from latent TB reactivation rather than recent transmission, with foreign-born individuals making up 76% of new diagnoses in 2023.

Impact on Children: The Growing Threat of TB in Youth

As TB cases rise, children become more at risk of both latent and active TB infection. When a child is exposed to TB, there are two possible outcomes: inactive TB (latent TB infection), which can reactivate later in life, or active TB disease, which can cause serious health complications if untreated.

Inactive TB

In some cases, TB germs can live in a child’s body without causing illness. This is known as inactive TB or latent TB infection. Children with inactive TB aren’t sick, don’t show symptoms, and can’t spread TB to others. However, they risk developing active TB if the infection isn’t treated.

Active TB

Active TB disease occurs when the immune system can’t prevent TB germs from growing. Children with active TB often feel unwell, showing symptoms like coughing, weakness, fever, and weight loss. Active TB is contagious and can spread to others through the air when an infected person coughs, speaks, or even sings.

Young children are particularly vulnerable to more severe forms of TB, such as TB meningitis (TB affecting the brain) and miliary TB (TB spread throughout the body). Without treatment, active TB disease can be fatal, making early diagnosis and treatment essential.

Symptoms of Active TB Disease in Children

TB symptoms vary depending on which part of the body is affected. When TB affects the lungs, children may experience:

● Persistent cough

● General fatigue or weakness

● Weight loss or growth issues

● Fever

● Night sweats

How TB Spreads

TB is an airborne infection that spreads when a person with active TB of the lungs or throat releases the bacteria by coughing or speaking. These germs can stick around for hours, especially in areas with poor ventilation. However, children are less likely to spread TB to others due to lower lung bacteria levels.

Vaccination and the Importance of Protecting Children Against Tuberculosis

The Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine is widely used to protect children against severe forms of TB. However, it’s rarely used in the U.S. because rates are usually low. In areas where TB is more common, administering the BCG vaccine at birth or in infancy significantly lowers a child’s risk of developing serious TB complications.

The BCG vaccine is typically given as a single injection in the upper arm. Mild side effects are common, like redness or a small sore at the injection site. In rare cases, children may develop a small abscess or experience swollen lymph nodes near the injection area. However, these side effects are usually mild and temporary.

Future Challenges and The Need to Stay Informed

The resurgence of (TB) as a global health threat, despite the availability of preventive and treatment tools, highlights the urgency of addressing potential future challenges. Combating TB requires a sustained commitment to early diagnosis. By staying informed, parents can strengthen efforts to control and ultimately eradicate TB, ensuring children won’t need to deal with this disease in the future.

Sources:

World Health Organization: Tuberculosis resurges as top infectious disease killer

CDC: Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) Vaccine for Tuberculosis

CDC: Tuberculosis in Children

The United States has seen an increase in cases of H5 bird flu, also known as avian influenza. This disease has gained attention due to its spread across wild birds, poultry, dairy cattle, and even a small number of human cases in the U.S. While there are currently no recorded cases in the state of Tennessee, it’s important for families to stay informed about the situation, particularly regarding the safety of children.

What is H5 Bird Flu?

H5 bird flu is a type of influenza that affects birds but can occasionally spread to other animals, including dairy cattle and humans. Since early 2024, the U.S. has seen several outbreaks in poultry flocks, widespread infections in wild birds, and a growing number of cases in dairy herds across several states. There hasn’t been human-to-human transmission of the H5 flu, but the virus has affected workers in the dairy and poultry industries because of their direct exposure to infected animals.

As of October 2024, there have been 27 reported human cases of H5 bird flu in the U.S., with 16 of those cases confirmed to be the H5N1 strain, which can potentially cause severe illness in humans. Thankfully, none of these cases have been in Tennessee, but the situation could turn if people aren’t cautious.

How Can It Affect Children?

While children have not been confirmed as infected so far, they are at a higher risk due to their developing immune systems. The chances of getting infected increase if a child spends time on farms, lives near areas with wild bird populations or comes into contact with poultry or dairy cattle.

Parents should monitor their children’s interactions with wild birds, domestic animals, and potentially contaminated surfaces, especially if they visit rural areas or farms. The CDC advises avoiding direct contact with birds and animals that may be infected and practicing proper hygiene, such as handwashing, after being outdoors.

If your child does come into contact with an infected animal, some common symptoms will appear:

● Fever

● Cough

● Sore throat

● Muscle aches

● Shortness of breath

In severe cases, bird flu can lead to complications such as acute respiratory distress syndrome, organ failure, or even death. Parents should seek medical help if their child shows any symptoms, particularly after possible exposure to birds.

Vaccines Part in Protecting Children

While no routine vaccine for bird flu is available to the general public, specific vaccines have been developed for strains like H5N1, which are used in outbreak situations or for high-risk populations. Vaccination is essential for bird flu and preventing the spread of other diseases during outbreaks.

Researchers are continuously developing new vaccines that could provide broader protection against bird flu viruses. Parents can help strengthen their children’s immune systems by getting the seasonal flu vaccine. This precautionary measure will reduce the risk of seasonal flu and potential complications if they are exposed to other viruses like bird flu.

Why is All This Important to Know?

It is important for parents to read and understand the current situation, as it will provide essential knowledge to protect their children from potential exposure to H5 bird flu. While the current public health risk is low, simple preventive measures — such as avoiding contact with wild birds, handling food safely, and practicing good hygiene — can reduce the chances of infection.

Parents can also help protect their children by staying aware of how the virus spreads, especially if they live in rural areas, visit farms, or are near wildlife.

Should We Be Worried?

For now, the risk to the general public, including children, remains low. Continuous surveillance data shows no unusual flu activity, and there has been no evidence of person-to-person spread of H5N1. In Tennessee’s agricultural community, managing animal health is crucial. Tennessee is not only one of the top beef-producing states; its agricultural production represented 4.4 percent of the total state GDP in 2022. Families need to do what they can to ensure this disease doesn’t spread on their farms and through their family groups.

Sources:

CDC: H5 Bird Flu: Current Situation

U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Updates on Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI)

U.S. Department of Agriculture: Avian Disease

University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture: Economic Impact of Agriculture

We are in the midst of the respiratory virus season, and health officials are already sounding the alarm about the number of whooping cough cases across the United States. New data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals an explosion in cases, up fivefold compared to last year. As of October 12, 2024, have been 18,506 cases reported nationwide, a significant jump from the 3,382 cases reported by this time last year. Like many other states, Tennessee is seeing its share of cases rise, with some reports indicating that the state currently has around 200 cases compared to around 60 last year. This rise in cases concerns children, as the infection can spread quickly from one to many. That’s why it’s important to understand this infection and how to prevent it.

What is Whooping Cough?

Whooping cough, known medically as pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection that starts with symptoms similar to a mild cold, such as a runny nose, low-grade fever, and mild cough. The bacteria release toxins, which damage the cilia and cause airways to swell. Once contracted, symptoms may worsen after a week or two, often leading to intense, uncontrollable coughing fits. These fits can be so forceful that they may lead to vomiting or even fractured ribs, making breathing difficult and often resulting in the distinct “whooping” sound that follows each coughing spasm.

How it spreads

Whooping cough spreads through respiratory droplets. Tiny droplets containing the bacteria become airborne when someone with the infection coughs, sneezes, or talks. If people breathe in these droplets, they can become infected. It’s especially contagious in the early stages, often before severe symptoms develop, making it easy for the infection to spread unnoticed.

Why is Whooping Cough So Dangerous?

For adults, a whooping cough infection is usually less serious. While it can be unpleasant and frustrating, it typically doesn’t result in significant health risks. However, infants under one year old are at the highest risk of complications if they catch this infection. Their immune systems are not fully developed, and if they haven’t received all recommended vaccines, they’re more likely to develop serious complications like pneumonia or encephalopathy (a brain disorder). Some infants don’t develop the typical cough and instead experience severe breathing difficulties, which is why early diagnosis is essential for their health.

Why Are Cases Rising?

Over the past few years, we’ve seen fewer cases of pertussis, or whooping cough, likely due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the measures taken to limit transmission. Currently, the U.S. is beginning to see a return to pre-pandemic patterns, with typically over 10,000 cases reported each year. Because this infection spreads through airborne bacteria, crowded places such as schools, daycare centers, and hospitals can be hotspots for transmission.

The infection is known to spread without symptoms, especially in adults and adolescents, who may unknowingly infect younger, more vulnerable family members. Older siblings, parents, and caregivers are often a source of infection for children who have not yet been fully vaccinated.

How to Protect Your Family

Vaccination is the best way to prevent this infection from spreading to you and your children. The CDC recommends that:

● Infants and children receive the DTaP vaccine, which covers diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis, in doses beginning at two months.

● Adolescents and adults get the Tdap booster, particularly if they are around young children or work in environments where the infection can spread easily.

If you have any questions about the vaccine, it is best to set up an appointment with your healthcare provider so they can provide you with the most up-to-date information.

Key Takeaways for Tennesseans

Tennessee, like many other states, is experiencing this significant rise. If this infection spreads even further, it can result in school closures and strain the state’s healthcare system. All families need to take proactive steps to ensure vaccinations are current and they recognize the symptoms of this infection. If someone in your household develops a runny nose, cough, or fever, consult a healthcare provider to determine whether testing or treatment is needed.

Tennessee is just beginning its respiratory virus season, making now the best time to promote awareness and prevention. Stay informed, keep your vaccinations up-to-date, and help prevent whooping cough from impacting Tennessee’s communities more.

Sources:

CDC: Whooping Cough (Pertussis)

CDC: Weekly Cases of Notifiable Disease

Mayo Clinic: Whooping Cough

Outbreaks of infectious disease might be more common this year as Tennessee’s kindergarten vaccination rates have been slipping. Usually, a decline in vaccination rates results from parents opting their children out of receiving them. However, many children are missing their required vaccines, many of whom are unvaccinated without any exemption.

Public health experts have always striven to ensure a 95% vaccination rate among kindergarteners and establish herd immunity for diseases like measles and whooping cough. Tennessee is just below that threshold. The DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis) vaccination rate currently stands at 94.8%, just shy of the 95% needed for herd immunity. Even a small gap like this can be dangerous and lead to unnecessary outbreaks that could have a lasting effect on a community.

The rise in exemptions has played a significant role in this decline. The 2022–23 school year saw more than 2,500 kindergarteners exempt from vaccines, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This number has grown since 2018, when the CDC began tracking exemptions. Pre-pandemic, about 1,500 children were exempt, but the number has climbed each year, which means there is a growing trend of vaccine hesitancy among parents.

This hesitancy stems from various factors, such as misinformation, distrust in healthcare systems, concerns about side effects, and cultural or religious beliefs. Social media has played a key role in amplifying vaccine misinformation, making spreading false claims and intensifying skepticism easier. For parents with vaccine concerns, consulting a healthcare provider is the best way to receive accurate, up-to-date information.

While Tennessee’s exemption rate stands at 3.2%, ranking 27th nationwide, it is still seeing a sharp increase. The state ranks 12th in rising exemptions, with around 650 more children exempt in 2022–23 than in the previous year. States like Idaho, Oregon, and Utah lead with the highest opt-out rates, but Tennessee’s upward trend highlights the broader issue of vaccine hesitancy.

In addition to the rise in exemptions, there is another troubling trend: more children are falling into a grace period where they haven’t received their vaccines but also don’t have exemptions. The CDC has also been tracking these children, and their numbers are increasing. This may be a lingering effect of the pandemic when many families delayed routine healthcare, including vaccines, due to fear of contracting COVID-19. Studies have shown that during the pandemic, people also delayed other critical health screenings, such as for cancer and sexually transmitted infections.

As Tennessee’s vaccine rates continue to fall, the risk of outbreaks of preventable diseases like measles and whooping cough increases. Tennessee has already recorded its first measles case in five years, highlighting the need to reach the 95% threshold to help prevent further spread. Measles can easily spread among children and lead to severe complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death. The return of this disease, once nearly eradicated in the U.S., highlights the importance of vaccination. If Tennessee continues this downward trend, more diseases like this could start appearing and have a ripple effect in the community. As the colder months start, it’s critical to receive all the required vaccines to help prevent sickness from spreading as we spend more time indoors.

Sources:

CDC: Coverage with Selected Vaccines and Exemption from School Vaccine Requirements Among Children in Kindergarten — United States, 2022–23 School Year

CDC: Reported STDs Reach All-time High for 6th Consecutive Year

Jama Network: Cancer Screening Disparities Before and After the COVID-19 Pandemic

Recent flooding from Hurricane Helena has devastated Tennessee communities, and as recovery begins, many face significant challenges beyond just displaced families, damaged property, and disrupted services. One danger many people may not consider in these types of disasters is the increased risk of infectious diseases. Floodwaters cause physical damage and carry harmful bacteria, chemicals, and waste that threaten public health. It might seem unexpected, but getting vaccinated after a flood is important to protect yourself and others from worsening situations.

How Bad Can Floodwater Be?

The water doesn’t look nice, and there’s a reason. Floods create the perfect environment for certain diseases to thrive. These waters often contain bacteria, viruses, and chemicals mixed with damaged sewage systems and exposed debris from buildings and farms. This can spread infections like E. coli, hepatitis A, and leptospirosis, while stagnant water creates breeding grounds for mosquitoes carrying diseases such as West Nile virus. Exposure to floodwater can also lead to skin infections from minor injuries, and once the water recedes, mold growth in water-damaged buildings poses respiratory risks. In these conditions, even small cuts or scrapes can become dangerous if they come into contact with bacteria from floodwaters.

While some of these infections can’t be prevented with a vaccine, there are two that can:

Tetanus

Tetanus is a serious infection caused by bacteria commonly found in soil, dust, and animal waste. During floods, people may come into contact with many bacteria absorbed in the flood water and become infected through sharp debris or contaminated water. If the bacteria enter the body through a wound, it can cause severe muscle stiffness and spasms, which can be life-threatening if not treated immediately.

Tetanus can easily be prevented with a vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that anyone exposed to floodwaters or debris check whether they’ve received a tetanus booster shot within the last ten years. If not, getting this booster can help protect yourself during cleanup efforts.

Hepatitis A

Another risk during flood recovery is hepatitis A, a virus that affects the liver. It can spread through contaminated food or water, which are common concerns after a flood, especially if local sewage systems have been destroyed. In areas where floodwaters have mixed with sewage, there’s an increased risk of the virus spreading through drinking water or poorly sanitized conditions.

Vaccination for hepatitis A is especially important for people living in or near affected areas, as well as for emergency workers and volunteers helping with recovery efforts.

Cleaning Up After Floodwater

To those who are volunteering their time or have been directly impacted by the floods, there are ways to minimize the risk to your health:

● Wash exposed areas: Use soap and clean water immediately. If you don’t have access to soap or water, use alcohol-based wipes or sanitizer.

● Care for wounds: Clean wounds thoroughly and seek medical attention, especially if the wound is deep.

● Wash contaminated clothes: Any clothing that comes into contact with flood or sewage water should be washed with hot water and detergent before wearing it again.

● Wear protective gear: If you are entering floodwater, always wear rubber boots, rubber gloves, and goggles to protect yourself from contaminants.

Protecting Public Health During Recovery

In the aftermath of a natural disaster, public health resources are usually stretched. Additional strain can make the system worse if more individuals start showing up with preventable diseases. This is why health officials stress the importance of prioritizing vaccines. By getting immunized, you can help reduce the risk of a secondary public health crisis and ensure a faster, safer recovery for everyone.

As recovery efforts in Tennessee continue, it’s essential not to overlook the importance of vaccinations. Floodwaters may recede, but the health risks will linger for months. By staying informed and up-to-date with recommended vaccines, you can protect yourself and help prevent the spread of diseases in the aftermath of this natural disaster.

Sources

CDC: Floods and Your Safety

CDC: Safety Guidelines: Floodwaters