The winter holidays are a great time to relax and recharge with family and friends. Unfortunately, it’s also a good time to catch one of the many respiratory viruses. This year, the flu is proving to be especially virulent, and COVID continues to affect many. Additionally, hospitals in the US and around the world are seeing an increase in RSV cases, a virus that is usually milder in adults but can be deadly for infants and the elderly.
When you gather for celebrations and festive gatherings, keep these tips in mind to keep yourself and others safe:
Vaccination is the best protection you can offer yourself and others.. If you have the medical ability, consider getting your flu and COVID vaccine and boosters. They are available through the Student Health Center or at most pharmacies and health care providers. Since it takes a couple of weeks to reach peak immunity, get vaccinated as soon as possible for the best protection around the holidays. Although the vaccines may not prevent you from getting the viruses, they will help to make your symptoms milder.
Masks offer additional protection against many diseases.. Consider wearing one when you attend large gatherings or are around others, especially if you or the people you are with are showing signs of being sick or if you will be around infants or the elderly.
Wash your hands frequently to prevent a multitude of diseases. Be sure to use soap and wash for 20 seconds – singing the happy birthday song to yourself or anyone else of your choosing twice should do the job.
Take hand sanitizer with you. If you can’t wash your hands, it’s a good alternative.
Cough or sneeze into your elbow or into a tissue – not in your hand. Eww.
And stay home if you’re sick.. They will all thank you!
Source: news.google.com