National Influenza Vaccination Week: American College of Physicians encourages adults to vaccinate

PHILADELPHIA December 2, 2024- In recognition of National Influenza Vaccination Week (Dec. 2-6), the American College of Physicians (ACP), representing internal medicine physicians, urges adults to prioritize getting vaccinated. Given the convergence of holiday gatherings and influenza season, vaccination is more important than ever due to increased risk of exposure to influenza and illnesses like COVID-19 and RSV. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) established the National Influenza Vaccination Week in 2005 as a reminder that the influenza season isn't just around the holidays but extends throughout winter into early spring.

The CDC says that cumulative influenza-associated hospitalization rates for those ages 18 and older have been rising since early October, with the largest increase among adults older than 65. Although the timing, intensity, and severity of the 2024-2025 influenza season are uncertain, the CDC anticipates continued high-level circulation of influenza viruses this fall and winter and notes:

• Seasonal influenza activity remains low nationally but continues to slightly increase in most parts of the country.
• The predominant strain is currently Influenza A (H3N2).
• The number of weekly flu hospital admissions remains low but is increasing.
• The CDC advises annual flu vaccinations for all adults, and emphasizes early treatment with antiviral drugs, especially for high-risk patients.

"With influenza cases rising, National Influenza Vaccination Week is a reminder for adults to protect themselves and others by getting the influenza vaccine," said Dr. Isaac Opole, M.D., Ph.D., MACP, President, ACP. "Immunization can help prevent sickness, reduce missed workdays, and avoid hospitalizations. High-risk groups, such as women who are pregnant, those over 65, and adults with chronic conditions should get vaccinated as soon as possible."

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices has published its recommendations on the CDC website.

ACP's I Raise the RatesAdult Immunization Resource Hub offers a range of valuable resources, including clinical recommendations, videos, and best practices to help physicians improve adult immunization rates in their practice. I Raise the Rates aims to address gaps in adult vaccination coverage and promote vaccine confidence. Through providing tools and educational resources to physicians and patients alike, I Raise the Rates enables evidence-based conversations in the clinical setting and empowers patients to make informed decisions on their own vaccine needs.

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About the American College of Physicians
The American College of Physicians is the largest medical specialty organization in the United States with members in more than 172 countries worldwide. ACP membership includes 161,000 internal medicine physicians, related subspecialists, and medical students. Internal medicine physicians are specialists who apply scientific knowledge and clinical expertise to the diagnosis, treatment, and compassionate care of adults across the spectrum from health to complex illness. Follow ACP on X, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Contact: Louisa Ahlqvist, (215) 351-2661, [email protected]