This year’s fall and winterrespiratory disease season is underway in the United States, with flu, COVID-19 and RSV typically peaking between now and February.

Three-quarters of American adults have at least one condition that increases their risk of severe illness from these contagious respiratory illnesses. Antiviral treatments can help reduce the risk of hospitalization and death by 80-90%, but timely access to antivirals remains a challenge – barriers such as cost, confusion about coverage and limited awareness can delay treatment.

To help journalists better understand and report on antiviral treatments and barriers to their use, the National Press Foundation will hold an online briefing Dec. 16, 12-1 p.m. ET. This free webinar, Peak 2025-2026 Respiratory Illness Season & Access to Antivirals, will feature experts in medicine and science, as well as a veteran health journalist, to help journalists answer the public’s questions with clarity and accuracy.

NPF’s panel of experts will share survey results and review common barriers and misconceptions about respiratory antivirals, especially in older adults and other high-risk groups.

Speakers will be added below as they are confirmed.

Experts will answer questions from webinar attendees during the Q&A. Journalists can also submit questions in advance to Rachel Jones.

This webinar is sponsored by the Respiratory Antiviral Alliance. NPF is solely responsible for its content.