COVID-19 cases are high in many parts of the country, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. With the flu season coming up and RSV levels already starting to pick up, health experts say that now is the time to protect yourself.

The CDC forecasts suggest that the respiratory virus season will be similar to last year, which brought more than 20 hospitalizations for every 100,000 people in one week at its peak – far worse than in pre-pandemic years.

“Getting our vaccination numbers up is still an ongoing battle,” says Dr. Jared Eddy, director of infection prevention at National Jewish Health.

Eddy says the best way to protect yourself and those around you is to get vaccinated. Last year was the first year the United States has vaccines available to protect the public against all three major respiratory viruses – the flu, RSV and COVID-19.

“You are able to get vaccines at the same time,” says Eddy.

When it comes to COVID-19, the CDC recommends everyone aged 6 months and older receive an updated vaccine this season. When to get it varies. Those at a higher risk – including seniors and those who are immunocompromised – are advised to get the vaccine as soon as possible since COVID-19 cases are high.

Others who may have natural immunity from a recent infection may decide to wait.

The seasonal flu vaccine is also recommended for everyone 6 months and older. September and October are the best times to get those, according to experts.

As for RSV - the vaccine is recommended for all adults aged 75 and older, along with those 60 and older at higher risk because of certain chronic medical conditions.