As respiratory virus season approaches, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services released comprehensive immunization guidance for influenza, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) to help residents protect themselves and their communities. According to state health figures, current levels of respiratory sickness throughout Wisconsin remain minimal, as indicated by wastewater surveillance, lab tests, and ER visits. However, public health officials note that virus spread routinely climbs during the fall and winter months.
Wisconsin Hospitalization Data and Public Health Goals
During the 2025–2026 respiratory virus season, complications from flu, RSV, and COVID-19 led to nearly 11,000 hospitalizations across Wisconsin. The majority of these severe cases occurred among older adults. DHS Secretary Kirsten Johnson emphasized that the state’s primary objective is to empower residents to make informed health choices. “At DHS, our goal is to help people across the state make the best choices for their own health and the health of their communities,” Johnson stated, adding that the ultimate aim is to help everyone make informed decisions and get protected.
State Health Officer and Division of Public Health Administrator Paula Tran pointed out that while these viruses can cause mild illness for some individuals, they frequently result in missed work and school alongside costly medical visits. “Vaccines help protect your own health, and the health of the people around you, by safely teaching your body how to recognize and fight viruses,” Tran explained.
Updated DHS Immunization Recommendations by Virus
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services outlines specific scheduling and eligibility criteria for each of the major fall and winter respiratory viruses:
- Flu (Influenza): An updated annual flu vaccine is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older. Health officials place special emphasis on vaccination for individuals at higher risk of severe illness—including older adults, pregnant people, young children, and individuals with chronic conditions—as well as anyone who interacts frequently with high-risk groups.
- COVID-19: Every autumn, health authorities advise that all individuals aged 6 months and older receive a refreshed vaccine formulated to match circulating strains. Shots are particularly strongly advised for seniors 65 and up, unvaccinated individuals, high-risk groups, and people in contact with vulnerable persons.
- RSV: A one-time dose is recommended for adults aged 75 and older, as well as individuals over 50 who are at increased risk of severe disease. Older adults do not need an RSV vaccine every year. For expectant mothers, DHS recommends one dose during weeks 32 through 36 of pregnancy between Sept. 1 and March 1. If the pregnant person does not receive the maternal immunization, an immunization protecting against antibodies is advised for babies under 8 months old along with certain toddlers. RSV shots can be administered alongside flu and COVID-19 vaccines.
Where to Receive Fall and Winter Vaccinations
Wisconsin residents can schedule their vaccinations through multiple accessible healthcare channels. Options include primary care providers, local or Tribal health departments, pharmacies, and community clinics. Additional details regarding prevention and virus tracking can be accessed directly through the Wisconsin Department of Health Services Respiratory Viruses webpage.