Fall ushers in flu and other respiratory illnesses: How to stay healthy

0
Fall ushers in flu and other respiratory illnesses: How to stay healthy

As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, fall officially marks the onset of “sick season.”

With the arrival of cooler weather, we often see an increase in common illnesses, including the flu, RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus), pneumonia, and COVID-19. Understanding these illnesses and how to prevent them is essential for keeping you and your loved ones healthy during this time.

Common Illnesses to Watch Out For

As temperatures drop, several respiratory infections ramp up, making it crucial to be prepared. Here’s a brief overview of the key illnesses you should be on the lookout for this fall:

  • Influenza (Flu): This viral infection can lead to severe illness and complications, particularly for vulnerable populations.
  • RSV: Often associated with infants and young children, RSV can also pose serious risks for older adults.
  • Pneumonia: This lung infection can arise as a complication of other respiratory illnesses and is particularly dangerous for those with weakened immune systems.
  • COVID-19: While we have learned to manage the virus, it remains a threat, especially with the emergence of new variants.

Prevention Strategies

Taking proactive steps can significantly reduce your risk of illness this fall. Here are some effective strategies to stay healthy:

  • Stay Home When Sick: If you’re feeling unwell, avoid contact with others to prevent spreading illness.
  • Cover Coughs and Sneezes: Use a tissue or your elbow to cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
  • Wash Hands Often: Frequent handwashing with soap and water is one of the simplest ways to prevent the spread of germs.
  • Get Enough Sleep and Exercise: Prioritize good sleep and regular physical activity to boost your immune system.
  • Eat a Healthy Diet: Incorporate a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to support overall health.
  • Get Vaccinated: Staying up to date on vaccinations is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself.

Importance of Vaccination

The most critical step in staying healthy this season is ensuring that you and your family are current on vaccinations. Here’s who should get vaccinated:

  • Flu Vaccine: Recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older. This year’s flu vaccine protects against three different flu viruses, helping to build immunity before exposure.
  • COVID-19 Vaccine: Also advised for everyone aged 6 months and older. Staying updated on COVID-19 vaccinations helps combat new variants.
  • Pneumonia and RSV Vaccines: Older adults (65 and older) and those with specific health conditions should consider vaccinations for pneumonia and RSV, as they are at greater risk for severe illness.

Many adults over 65 may not realize how serious RSV can be for them, as it is often seen as a threat primarily to young children. However, for older adults, RSV can lead to serious complications like pneumonia and may be life-threatening.

The Benefits of Vaccination

Vaccination remains the most effective method for preventing serious illnesses. Here are some key points:

  • Prevention Over Treatment: It’s always better to prevent a disease than to treat it after it occurs. Vaccines can prevent infections from becoming severe, reducing the risk of hospitalization and death.
  • Rigorous Testing: Vaccines undergo extensive testing to ensure safety and effectiveness. Research shows that the benefits of vaccination far outweigh any potential risks.

Where to Get Vaccinated

Vaccines are widely available, making it easy to stay up to date:

  • Healthcare Provider Offices: Schedule an appointment with your primary care provider.
  • Pharmacies: Many pharmacies offer vaccinations, often free or at a low cost, regardless of insurance status.
  • Local Health Departments and Community Health Centers: These resources can provide information on where to get vaccinated.

If you have children, ask their doctor about the Vaccines for Children program, which can help families find free vaccines.

For additional resources and answers to common questions about vaccinations, visit Up2date.utah.gov.

Follow Fresh Living on social media, subscribe to our newsletter, and check out our podcast for more

Watch Fresh Living every weekday at 1 pm MST on CBS Channel 2 or on YouTube.

link

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *