1190: State Health Leaders Outline Strategies Ahead of Respiratory Virus Season

As the 2026–27 respiratory virus season approaches, state health departments are preparing communities for influenza, COVID-19, and RSV while working to strengthen vaccine confidence and access. On today’s show, we’ll hear excerpts from a briefing on Tuesday, August 18, where public health leaders from Connecticut, Alabama, New York, and Alaska discussed strategies for reaching people through trusted messengers, addressing vaccine hesitancy with empathy, and making vaccination easier to access. The leaders also share lessons from recent respiratory virus seasons, including the impact of flu, RSV, and COVID-19 on hospitalizations and children, and explain how coordination among state, local, federal, tribal, and community partners help health departments respond to emerging threats. From Alaska's vaccine procurement program and immunization information system to New York's community-based approach to vaccine outreach, the briefing highlights how preparation, communication, and strong public health partnerships can help protect communities.Building Resilient Immunization Programs: A 2026-2031 Roadmap for Public Health Leadership | ASTHOCOVID-19 | ASTHOInfluenza | ASTHO