The urgency stems from sobering data collected during the 2025-2026 season. According to the CDC, the influenza season alone resulted in an estimated 390,000 hospitalizations and 24,000 deaths. Furthermore, COVID-19 and RSV combined for nearly 600,000 hospitalizations within the same period. Harold Wimmer, president and CEO of the American Lung Association, notes that these infections often serve as catalysts for dangerous flare-ups in patients with asthma or COPD.
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American Lung Association Urges Vaccination Ahead of Virus Season
With respiratory virus season peaking between October and March, the American Lung Association is launching a nationwide push for preventative care. The campaign targets the 35 million Americans living with chronic lung conditions, emphasizing that timely vaccinations for flu, COVID-19, and RSV remain the primary defense against severe hospitalizations.
For those managing lung disease, the stakes are particularly high. Respiratory viruses account for up to 80% of asthma exacerbations, while individuals undergoing treatment for lung cancer face weakened immune systems that struggle to combat viral complications like pneumonia. The Association recommends that everyone aged six months and older consult their healthcare provider regarding annual flu and COVID-19 shots, while adults aged 50 to 74 with underlying health risks should discuss the specific RSV vaccine. Detailed guidance and resources are available through the organization’s dedicated portal at Lung.org/vaccines.
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