(Dover, DE – November 25, 2025) – Leading health advocates are encouraging Delawareans to take precautions and get vaccinated to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses as the winter months approach.

The First State Health Leaders Alliance is a group of healthcare stakeholders who have joined forces to strengthen healthcare in Delaware. The advocates represent nurses, physicians, public health and medicine, persons with disabilities and caregivers, home care, health care facilities, and hospitals.

“To prevent the spread of illness, we cannot stress enough the importance of getting vaccinated against flu, COVID-19, and if applicable, RSV. We also recommend preventative measures like frequent handwashing and staying home when sick. When all Delawareans have access to preventative care, including vaccines, our communities are stronger and healthier. We are proud that Delaware officials are showing steady leadership by providing guidance on proven public health measures. As we approach the holiday season and winter months where there is less time outside and more gatherings, we are coming together to highlight the importance of vaccination and prevention measures that keep ourselves, our loved ones, and community members healthy.”

The First State Health Leaders Alliance will share resources collectively through the winter season with a #healthyholidaysDE campaign and has created a webpage with resources on vaccination and precautionary measures: deha.org/advocacy/healthyholidays

This awareness is in coordination with state efforts to support public health measures. Under Governor Matt Meyer’s leadership, Delaware is a member of the Northeast Public Health Collaborative, a coalition of regional public health agencies and leaders, as well as the Governors Public Health Alliance. This collaborative is focused on developing evidence-based public health guidance, disease surveillance and supporting public health efforts. You can follow the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services for local respiratory illness statistics as well as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for updated respiratory illness activity in the U.S.

“Vaccines, including vaccines for COVID-19, flu, and RSV save lives,” DHSS Secretary Christen Linke Young said. “As we enter the winter months, we encourage Delawareans to consult their health care providers about recommended vaccinations to protect themselves and others from respiratory illness.”

For information on First State Health Leaders Alliance members, please see the below:

• Ability Network of Delaware
• Delaware Academy of Medicine and Public Health and Immunization Coalition of Delaware
• Delaware Association for Home & Community Care
• Delaware Healthcare Association
• Delaware Health Care Facilities Association
• Delaware Nurses Association
• Delaware Pharmacists Society
• LeadingAge NJ & DE
• Medical Society of Delaware