How to protect your family against influenza, respiratory syncytial, and COVID-19.
Respiratory viruses like the flu, RSV, and COVID proliferate when a sick person spreads the virus through droplets from sneezing, coughing, or talking. It is common to get sick with respiratory viruses in the fall and winter. There are steps that you can take to protect yourself and others during this time. Vaccination is the best way to protect your child from the virus, according to Dallas County Health and Human Services. Lake Highlands High School alum Dr. Philip Huang is the director of the DCHHS.
Influenza, or the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. Some people, such as those 65 and older, young children, and people with certain health conditions, are at higher risk of serious flu complications. There are two main types of influenza viruses: types A and B. The influenza A and B viruses that routinely spread in people are responsible for seasonal flu epidemics each year.
Respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. Most people recover in a week or two, but RSV can be serious. Infants and older adults are more likely to develop severe RSV and need hospitalization. Vaccines are available to protect older adults from severe RSV.
COVID-19 is a disease caused by a virus named SARS-CoV-2. It can be very contagious and spreads quickly. Over 1 million people have died from COVID-19 in the United States. COVID most often causes respiratory symptoms that can feel much like a cold, the flu, or pneumonia. COVID may attack more than your lungs and respiratory system. Other parts of your body may also be affected by the disease. Most people with COVID have mild symptoms, but some people become severely ill.
Here are some tips to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses:
- Ensure each member of your family gets the recommended annual flu shot.
- The American Academy of Pediatrics and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that all children age 6 months and older get the flu vaccine.
- September and October are good times to get a flu vaccine.
- Click here to find a local place to receive your flu or COVID vaccine.
- Stay up to date with COVID vaccines.
- Stay home if you are not feeling well, especially if you have a fever or are showing symptoms of flu or other respiratory virus. And try to isolate yourself from others in your household as much as possible. If you must go out, wear a mask to prevent the spread of germs to others.
- Wash your hands regularly, especially before and after eating and after using the restroom.
- Regularly disinfect shared surfaces in your home.
- Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.
- Don’t share cups, dishes, toys, or other items with someone who has symptoms of a respiratory illness.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
