COVID-19 Cases Rise as Experts Urge Vaccination Ahead of Winter Surge
Dr. Sharon Nachman, chief of pediatric infectious diseases at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital, warns that the COVID-19 season has already begun, with hospitalizations increasing as respiratory viruses circulate. “We expect this to continue and worsen as more viruses spread in communities,” she told Parade. Research indicates that last year’s 2025-2026 COVID vaccine lowered hospitalizations by 55%.
The source article adds that respiratory viruses are arriving earlier this year, with Dr. Nachman noting, “We expect that it will continue and get worse once we get more respiratory viruses in our communities.” She emphasizes that vaccines reduce emergency department visits and hospitalizations, even if they do not prevent all illness. “They do protect against severe illness and long COVID,” she said.
Timing the Vaccine for Maximum Protection
Health officials recommend getting the updated COVID-19 vaccine by late October to ensure immunity before winter surges. Dr. Jonathan Jennings, a board‑certified internist, advises patients to aim for vaccination between September and late November. “The vaccine takes at least two weeks to build protection, so getting it before Thanksgiving is ideal,” he said. However, Dr. David Cutler, a family medicine physician, notes that COVID’s non‑seasonal nature makes timing less predictable. “Surges have occurred in every month over the past six years,” he explained.
The source article highlights that Dr. Cutler’s warning aligns with data showing surges in all months, complicating efforts to set a universal timeline. Dr. Nachman also specifies that for maximum protection during the January and February surge, the vaccine should be administered by late October. “It takes about three months for your peak antibody levels and for your body to build maximum protection after the vaccine is administered,” she explained. Dr. Mark Loafman, a family physician, adds, “Waiting means you run the risk of facing a COVID infection while unvaccinated, which would then be too late.”
Latest Variant and Vaccine Efficacy
This year’s vaccine targets the JN.1‑lineage XFG variant, a descendant of Omicron, which now accounts for the majority of circulating strains, according to Parade.
The source article clarifies that the JN.1-lineage XFG variant “makes up the largest number of circulating virus variants right now,” as stated by Dr. Nachman.
Who Should Vaccinate and When
Experts say vaccination is recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Certain groups, including those 65 and older or immunocompromised, may need additional doses.
The source article mentions that the 2025-2026 vaccine’s 55% hospitalization reduction rate applies broadly.
Accessing the Vaccine
Vaccines are available through local public health departments, pharmacies, and healthcare providers. State‑specific eligibility and requirements may vary, so patients are advised to consult their doctor or pharmacist. “Everyone is eligible from a clinical perspective, even if public messaging focuses on high‑risk groups,” said Dr. Loafman.
The source article adds that some states may have different eligibility criteria, though clinicians universally agree on the clinical recommendation. Dr. Jennings also notes that “spacing out vaccines” for those concerned about side effects is an option, though simultaneous administration is safe.
When should I get the vaccine to be protected by winter?
Experts recommend getting the shot by late October to allow three months for peak immunity, as advised by Dr. Nachman.
The source article specifies that “the ideal time to get the vaccination is between September and the end of November,” with Dr. Jennings emphasizing that “the vaccine takes at least two weeks to protect against COVID-19.”
Can I get the COVID vaccine and other shots at the same time?
Yes, the COVID vaccine can be administered alongside flu, tetanus, or shingles vaccines, though spacing them out is an option for those concerned about side effects like fatigue.
Is the 2026 vaccine effective against the current JN.1 variant?
The updated vaccine is designed to target the JN.1‑lineage XFG variant, which dominates current cases, according to Parade’s reporting.
Next Steps: Monitoring Variants and Public Health Guidance
The source article highlights that public health officials are closely tracking the JN.1 lineage and its potential to evolve. Dr. Nachman warns that “respiratory viruses are arriving earlier,” urging proactive measures. The next major update on variant trends is expected in mid-November, according to Parade.
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