Fall 2025 Vaccine Guide for Cincinnati: Flu, RSV, COVID


A woman getting a vaccination.

Your Fall Vaccine Checklist

As school routines return and calendars fill up, vaccine planning can feel overwhelming. This guide from Concierge Medicine of Cincinnati breaks it down: what to get, when to get it, and how to time flu, RSV, and COVID vaccines for the best protection—without the side effect pileup.


Last Reviewed: September 09, 2025

If your calendar fills up fast once school and work routines return, you are not alone. Many of our midlife patients want a simple, confident plan for fall vaccines that avoids stacked side effects and last-minute scrambling. This guide walks you through what to get, when to get it, and how to combine or space appointments based on your health goals. We can also create a personalized vaccine calendar for you and answer questions along the way.

If you are looking for adult vaccines in Cincinnati or need a clear plan for flu, RSV, and the fall COVID vaccine, you are in the right place.

What matters most this fall

Flu returns every season. For most adults, September and October are the best months to get vaccinated, so protection is in place before peak activity. Aim to be vaccinated by the end of October.

RSV vaccination is a single dose for eligible adults, not an annual series. The best window for first-time recipients is late summer through early fall, typically August to October.

COVID-19 vaccines are updated for the coming respiratory season. As of August 27, 2025, FDA approvals are limited to individuals aged 65 and older and those with specific health risks. That means eligibility is narrower this year than last, and federal guidance may evolve. We will confirm your eligibility before scheduling.

Who needs which shots

Flu vaccine

Everyone 6 months and older should receive a flu vaccine each season, with rare exceptions. For adults in midlife, timing it in September or October strikes a balance between durability and convenience. If you miss that window, vaccinate as soon as possible, as influenza usually circulates well into spring.

Good news: Flu shots are available in-office to members by appointment at all three Cincinnati locations.

RSV vaccine

A single dose is recommended for all adults 75 years and older. Adults 50 to 74 with increased risk for severe RSV are also recommended, for example, those with chronic heart or lung disease, immunocompromise, severe obesity, or residence in a nursing home. If you already received a dose in a prior season, you are considered complete for now. The ideal timing for first-time recipients is late summer or early fall.

COVID-19 vaccine

For fall 2025, FDA approval is currently limited to adults 65 and older and to people ages 5 through 64 who have underlying conditions that raise their risk for severe illness. If you qualify, we will schedule you as supply rolls out and help clarify coverage with your insurer. We will keep your plan aligned with the latest regulations.

Can I get more than one shot on the same day?

Often, yes. You can receive flu and COVID vaccines at the same visit if you are eligible for both and the timing makes sense. Vaccines given on the same day should go in separate spots at least one inch apart, either in different arms or spaced on the same arm. Receiving multiple vaccines at once can slightly increase minor side effects, such as fatigue or arm soreness; however, this approach is considered safe and effective.

RSV and flu can also be given together. Because RSV vaccines are relatively new, data on coadministration is more limited, and antibody levels may be slightly lower when given together. If you prefer to separate appointments to minimize side effects or better track any reactions, there is no required waiting period between these vaccines.

A simple timing ladder for midlife women

Think of this as a flexible template. We will customize it to your eligibility, travel, and health conditions.

Step 1: Lock in flu by the end of October.

Schedule your in-office flu shot for September or October so protection is in place before peak flu activity.

Step 2: Add RSV if you qualify and have not had it.

If you are 75 or older, schedule your RSV vaccination in August through October. If you are 50 to 74 and have risk factors, book it in the same window. You can pair it with the flu visit or place it one to two weeks apart if you are sensitive to side effects. Remember, the RSV vaccine is currently a one-time dose.

Step 3: Schedule a COVID-19 vaccine if you are eligible this season.

If you meet current criteria, you can receive the COVID and flu vaccines in the same visit, or schedule them a week apart if you prefer. If you recently had COVID, timing decisions are personalized. We can discuss the best plan based on your risk factors and local activity.

Pro tip for side effects: Use different arms if you are getting two vaccines on the same day. Plan to hydrate, have a light dinner, and keep a relaxed evening on your calendar. Most reactions are mild and short-lived.

An African American woman getting a vaccination.

Vaccine Timing Without the Guesswork

Not sure how to space your shots—or if you need all three? Our team confirms your eligibility, maps a vaccine calendar that fits your schedule, and handles appointment logistics so your fall protection is in place, stress-free.

How we keep it easy

  • In-office flu vaccination. Seasonal flu shots are available at our Mariemont, Kenwood, and Mason offices for members by appointment.

  • Personalized vaccine calendar. We map out what you need, what you don’t, and the best order for September and October.

  • Telehealth Q&A. If new guidance is released or you have questions about eligibility or interactions with current medications, we respond promptly so you are not left guessing.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get all three in one day if I am eligible?

Yes. Flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines may be given at the same visit if you qualify for each. Expect a higher chance of temporary local reactions, and use separate injection sites. If you prefer to space them, there is no minimum interval required.

What if I am worried about side effects or have a busy week ahead?

Choose one vaccine per week for two or three weeks. Flu first for most people, RSV next if you qualify, and COVID when eligible and available. This approach keeps protection moving forward without stacking reactions.

Is RSV really one and done?

For now, yes. Adults who have already received an RSV vaccine do not need an annual dose at this time. Health authorities continue to track durability and will update if the situation changes.

What if guidance changes again?

Recommendations can shift. We track updates and adjust your plan so you don’t have to follow every headline.

Reserve your spot and start fall strong

If you are looking for a clear plan for adult vaccines in Cincinnati that respects your schedule and health goals, we can help. We will confirm eligibility, create a personalized order for flu, RSV, and COVID, and assist with booking appointments in a sequence that works for you.

Concierge Medicine of Cincinnati | Concierge Primary Care & Menopause Care

Mariemont • Kenwood • Mason

Call: 513-760-5511

Visit: conciergemedicineofcincinnati.com

Educational content only. Please consult your clinician for guidance based on your medical history.

 

If you are ready for a better healthcare experience, schedule a consultation today. Find out how concierge care can offer the access, attention, and advocacy you deserve at every stage of life.

 

Ashley Shea, DNP, AGNP, MSCP

Ashley Shea, DNP, AGNP, MSCP, is a certified nurse practitioner specializing in primary care and women's health. With over a decade of experience, she earned her Doctorate from the University of Cincinnati and is certified by the North American Menopause Society. At Concierge Medicine of Cincinnati, Dr. Shea provides comprehensive care for patients of all genders, emphasizing patient education and prevention. A Cincinnati native, she balances her passion for healthcare with family life and community involvement.

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