The holiday season is a time for togetherness, celebration, and sharing joy with family and friends. However, as gatherings become more frequent, so does the risk of spreading viruses. The number of people with flu-like illnesses, which includes influenza, COVID-19, RSV, and other viruses, has increased significantly over the past 2 weeks, and will likely increase more over the next couple of weeks. By taking simple precautions, you can help ensure your festivities are remembered for the laughter and love, rather than for the illness you bring home.
How can you tell if you have the flu, RSV, COVID, or just a common cold?
As a doctor, even I can’t tell which of those you have without doing a test. At-home test kits are available for influenza A and B, and COVID. Some kits test for all 3 at one time, with results in just a few minutes at home. Rapid home testing for RSV is not available, but you can get tested at your doctor’s office, some pharmacies or urgent care clinics, or get a mail-in test kit.Why does prevention matter?
Viruses tend to thrive during the colder months when people spend more time indoors in close contact. Protecting yourself and others isn’t just about you staying healthy; it’s also about safeguarding vulnerable members of your family and community, including older adults, infants and children under 5, and those with chronic health conditions.
Here are some practical tips to stay healthy:
- Get Vaccinated – Annual flu shots and updated COVID-19 vaccines are your best defense against serious illness. RSV vaccine is also available for those at high risk of serious illness. It is ideal to get vaccinated early in the season to maximize protection, but it’s not too late to see benefit.
- Stay Home if Sick – If you or your child feels unwell, it’s best to skip gatherings. This small act can prevent the spread of illness to others.
- Test – Use at-home tests to test yourself for flu and COVID before attending gatherings, especially if there will be older adults or young children there. Stay home if you test positive, even if you feel okay.
- Practice Good Hygiene – Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before meals and after coughing or sneezing. Use hand sanitizer when soap isn’t available.
- Cover Coughs and Sneezes – Use a tissue or your elbow to cover your mouth and nose, then dispose of tissues immediately and wash your hands.
- Ventilate Indoor Spaces – Open windows or use air purifiers to improve airflow during indoor events.
- Keep Surfaces Clean – Regularly disinfect commonly touched surfaces like doorknobs, countertops, and phones.
By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your holiday season is filled with love and joy, rather than trips to the doctor’s office.
Wishing you and your family a happy, healthy holiday season!
If you have any questions about preventing the spread of illness, please log into your account and send us your question. We are here to help.
Dr. Anita Bennett MD – Health Tip Content Editor