Viral Respiratory Illness Protection
Stay up to date on recommendations and data on viral respiratory illnesses including flu, COVID-19, RSV, and more. Find resources, guidance, and answers to common questions below.
Everyone ages six months and older is encouraged to get the updated flu and COVID-19 vaccines. Pregnant parents, babies, and older adults should consult their health care professional about RSV vaccinations.
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Still have questions? Contact:
Boston Public Health Commission
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1010 Massachusetts Avenue
6th FloorBoston, MA 02118
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Find Vaccines Near You
We do not have anymore free vaccine clinics scheduled for 2025.
To find a vaccine clinic near you, talk with your health care provider, visit your local pharmacy or health center, or click the button below.
Get Vaccinated
Vaccines help prevent serious illnesses like measles, chickenpox, whooping cough, polio, and more. With vaccine preventable illnesses on the rise, it is more important than ever to stay protected. Getting vaccinated is much safer than getting the disease, as it lowers the risk of your child being hospitalized or having long-term health problems.
Contact your health care provider or visit a local pharmacy to find an accessible vaccine clinic near you.
Questions About Viral Respiratory Illnesses
Common QuestionsRespiratory viruses cause commonly known illnesses such as flu (influenza), COVID-19, RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), and other illnesses that affect the organs involved in breathing.
Adults aged 65 and older, children younger than 5 years old, pregnant people, and people with chronic medical conditions are at higher risk for severe infections.
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Fever
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Chills
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Fatigue (tiredness)
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Cough
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Runny or Stuffy Nose
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Headache
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Symptoms may also include, but are not limited to, chest discomfort, decrease in appetite, diarrhea, muscle and/or body aches, loss of taste or smell, sneezing, sore throat, vomiting, wheezing.
There are many ways that you can protect yourself, your loved ones, and your community from getting sick from respiratory illnesses.
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Stay up to date with your vaccinations.
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Stay home when you’re feeling sick.
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Practice proper hand hygiene by washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or using hand sanitizer.
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Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing by using a tissue or your elbow.
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Wear a well-fitting mask, especially in crowded indoor spaces.
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Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces often.
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Increase indoor ventilation and air circulation by opening windows when possible.
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Have COVID-19 rapid test kits available at home if you have symptoms of COVID-19.
For the COVID-19 vaccine, the State announced anyone 6 months and older is eligible.
It is strongly recommended for children between 6 and 23 months, adults 65 and older, healthcare workers, those with medical conditions associated with higher risk of severe COVID-19 disease, and those who are immunocompromised, pregnant, or lactating.
Common Illnesses
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Related Resources
Related Resources
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Still have questions? Contact:
Boston Public Health Commission
-
1010 Massachusetts Avenue
6th FloorBoston, MA 02118
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