Autumn is coming: which vaccines are recommended this time of year?

Summer slowly says goodbye, bringing shorter days, cooler mornings, and the first jackets coming out of the closet. For many families, autumn is a time to return to routines, enjoy cozy weekends, and prepare body and mind for the colder months ahead.

It was on a September morning that Clara, a mother of two and caregiver for her elderly parents, remembered something essential while organizing the family calendar: is everyone protected for the autumn ahead?

🍁 Why should you think about vaccines now?

With the arrival of autumn, temperature fluctuations increase and people spend more time indoors — two perfect conditions for the spread of respiratory viruses. Flu, Covid-19, and other infections become more common, and prevention starts before the first sneezes.

Clara knew that her children's grandparents no longer had the same immunity as before. She also knew that with the return to school, the kids would be more exposed to infections. So, she decided to schedule the seasonal vaccinations.

💉 The main vaccines recommended for this season

1. Flu vaccine (influenza)

The flu virus mutates every year, so the vaccine is updated annually. It is especially recommended for:

• Seniors (over 65)
• People with chronic illnesses
• Pregnant women
• Healthcare professionals
• Children between 6 months and 5 years (in some clinical guidelines)
• People in direct contact with high-risk groups

Vaccination significantly reduces the risk of severe complications, hospitalizations, and death — especially for the most vulnerable.

2. Covid-19 vaccine (seasonal booster)

Although the pandemic peak has passed, the virus is still circulating. In autumn and winter, when the immune system is more vulnerable, vaccine boosters are essential to maintain protection — especially in high-risk groups.

Health authorities recommend booster doses for:

• People over 60
• Immunocompromised individuals
• People with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions
• Professionals working in high-risk environments

3. Other vaccines recommended by your doctor

Additional vaccines may be recommended individually, such as:

• Pneumococcal — to prevent pneumonia and invasive infections
• Pertussis (whooping cough) — especially for pregnant women to protect newborns
• Hepatitis A or B — for travel or specific health contexts
• Tetanus — for wound protection or adult boosters

Consulting your doctor or nurse at your local health center is the best way to review your updated vaccination schedule.

👨‍👩‍👧 The importance of protecting the whole family

Clara knew that protecting her family went beyond buying vitamins or eating healthier. Vaccines were an effective, safe, and accessible way to make sure everyone faced autumn with fewer risks.

Vaccination is a collective responsibility. When you get vaccinated, you protect yourself — and others: the most vulnerable, those who cannot be vaccinated, and those living with chronic conditions.

🍂 Conclusion

Autumn invites us to slow down, take care, and prepare for the challenges colder months bring. Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to strengthen the immune system and prevent respiratory diseases during this season.

Just like Clara, we can all act early and make conscious choices for our own health and that of our loved ones.

💡 With the Misericórdias Saúde Card, you can access special vaccine conditions, medical consultations, and support. Get informed and prepare for autumn with peace of mind.