In the midst of both the holiday and flu season, here are some helpful tips for preventing the spread of illnesses during this special time of year. With the worrying surge of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) currently impacting young children and elderly people along with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it’s important that we keep ourselves safe and healthy as we gather with loved ones.
1. Stay Up-to-Date on Your Vaccines
The best way to prevent flu and COVID-19 is to stay up to date with your vaccines. If you haven’t gotten your flu shot for the 2022-2023 flu season, now’s the best time to get one. COVID boosters targeted specifically for the omicron variant are now available for people age 5 and older. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends getting an updated booster if it’s been at least 2 months since your last dose.
There is not yet a vaccine available for preventing RSV. But, keep reading for tips that will help prevent the spread of RSV.
2. Wash Your Hands Frequently
Maintaining good hand hygiene is a great way to keep you and your loved ones safe from infectious diseases. Be sure to wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Experts recommend washing your hands before holding a baby as they are particularly vulnerable to RSV.
3. Disinfect Frequently Touched Surfaces
Wiping down surfaces—especially frequently touched surfaces such as phones and door knobs—will help mitigate the spread of germs. According to the CDC, RSV can survive for many hours on hard surfaces such as tables. It typically lives on soft surfaces such as tissues and hands for shorter amounts of time.
4. Wear a Mask While Traveling
While mask mandates across the country have been lifted, many experts say it’s still a good idea for those trying to avoid getting sick and spreading illness to others. Wearing a high quality mask such as an N95 or KN95 can not only help prevent the spread of COVID, but other infectious diseases such as the flu and RSV.
5. Stay Home If You’re Sick
As we approach 3 years into the pandemic, the idea of not being able to gather with loved ones sounds like agony. But if you’re feeling sick or tested positive for COVID-19, it’s important that you stay home to prevent further spread. Thankfully, technology helps make loved ones just a video call away even if you’re unable to be physically present at a gathering.