Many respiratory viruses circulate in the fall and winter seasons causing illness of varying severity across the United States.  Three common viruses include influenza (flu), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and COVID-19.  Children under 5, older adults, and those with underlying medical conditions such as chronic lung disease, heart disease, and diabetes, have an increased risk for severe illness from respiratory viruses.  The following tips can help to protect people from these illnesses and prevent such from spreading.

Get vaccinated.  Vaccines remain one of the safest ways for individuals to protect themselves and prevent the risk of spreading viruses to others.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that children and adults receive vaccinations for the flu, COVID-19, and RSV in late summer to early fall before the viruses start spreading widely within the community.

Handwashing.  Wash hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol if soap and water are not available.  Wash or sanitize hands before preparing food, before eating, before and after caring for someone who is sick or around someone who has a cold, after using the bathroom, after sneezing or coughing, and after touching anything that may carry germs such as grocery carts, diapers, raw food, animals, or trash.

Cover coughs and sneezes.  Individuals should use a tissue to cover their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and wash hands afterward.  If tissues are not available, using the elbow to cough or sneeze into can also reduce the spread of germs.

Stay home when sick.  Try to avoid close contact with people who are sick.  While ill, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from spreading infection.  Wearing a mask around others can also help provide protection against circulating viruses.

Individuals who become infected with the flu, COVID-19, or RSV should self-isolate, get plenty of rest, and stay hydrated.  Over-the-counter pain relievers may also be used to reduce some symptoms associated with these illnesses.  If symptoms worsen or fail to improve after three days, contact a healthcare professional.  People who experience shortness of breath, fever for more than three days, or other concerning symptoms should seek medical care right away.