Respiratory Virus Resources for People with Disabilities

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Some people with disabilities may be more likely to get very sick from flu, COVID-19, or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Underlying medical conditions, living in congregate settings, or social determinants of health can add to their risk. Find resources that can help protect people with disabilities.

Connect to Resources that Help People Access Vaccines

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Vaccines are the best protection against the severe effects of these respiratory viruses. Resources can help people with disabilities get vaccinated:

  • Disability Information and Access Line (DIAL) helps people with disabilities find local vaccination clinics and connect with accessible transportation, in partnership with the Administration for Community Living.
  • CDC’s Bridge Access Program provides COVID-19 vaccines for adults without health insurance and adults whose insurance does not cover COVID-19 vaccine costs.

If feeling sick, tests can quickly detect viruses so there are no delays in getting treatment and taking steps to protect family members and coworkers. Treatments are available for flu and COVID-19 that can reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death. Find information about testing and treatment: Protect yourself from COVID-19, Flu, and RSV.

Protect Yourself and Others

The best way to prevent infection is to take everyday preventive actions. Using more than one strategy lowers your chances of catching and spreading a respiratory virus or getting very sick:

Find Accessible Materials Tailored for People with Disabilities

This section features links to a variety of accessible materials. Updates will be posted as they become available.

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Materials for People with Disabilities

Health promotion topics include hand hygiene, cleaning and disinfection, mask wearing, and physical distancing behavior.

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Protect Your Child from COVID-19, the Flu, and Other Illnesses

An overview provides ways to help your child stay healthy at school.

all persons social media
COVID-19: Toolkit for People with Disabilities

Guidance and tools to help people with disabilities and those who care for them make decisions, protect their health, and communicate with their communities.

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COVID-19 Resources for People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and Their Care Providers

COVID-19 Easy to Read Hub offers accessible and interactive materials for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their care providers.

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#COVID-19 ASL Playlist on YouTube

COVID-19 ASL playlist includes ASL videos about COVID-19.

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ASL - RSV Questions and Answers

CDC Director, Mandy K. Cohen, MD, MPH, answers your common questions about RSV.

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ASL – Time to Get Your Flu Shot

CDC Director, Mandy K. Cohen, MD, MPH, discusses the importance of getting your flu shot to protect yourself and your family this virus season.

Take Additional Steps

People with certain types of disabilities might be at increased risk of becoming infected with respiratory viruses. It may be helpful to have a plan in place to help provide additional protection.

Prepare for the Respiratory Virus Season

People with disabilities can take some additional steps to prepare for the respiratory virus season.

Prepare if You Have a Direct Support Provider

People with disabilities who have a direct support provider can take additional steps to help protect themselves from respiratory illness.

Prepare for Additional Precautions in Congregate Living Settings

People who live in community congregate living settings (such as group homes or assisted living facilities) may see additional precautions being taken.

Helpful Resources