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Viral season -

This fall and winter, people can expect a surge in respiratory viruses similar to 2023. But while over 200 viruses can cause respiratory infections, you can minimize their impact through various prevention strategies.

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Still a threat -

COVID-19 remains more dangerous than the flu, despite becoming less severe over time. Although it leads to fewer hospitalizations and deaths today, it can still cause long COVID, so high-risk individuals must remain cautious about infections.

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New variant - Recently, a new variant of COVID called XEC has been making waves throughout Europe and North America. The variant already accounts for 6% of recent US cases, while the Omicron variant accounts for 58.7%.

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Risks -

COVID risk depends on individual factors like age, pregnancy, or a weakened immune system. Older and frail individuals must take extra precautions, as the effects of infection are more severe for them.

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Isolation -

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises staying home when experiencing respiratory symptoms, regardless of whether it's COVID-19, the flu, or a cold.

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Rest and fluids -

One of the only similarities that can be found between the common cold, COVID, and the flu is their typical treatment. Aside from medicating, experts recommend lots of rest and fluids while sick.

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24 hours -

People should only return to normal daily activities when their symptoms have improved and they’ve been fever-free for at least 24 hours without medication.

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Universal precautions -

All respiratory illnesses should be treated just like any infection: protect vulnerable people, mask when symptomatic, and avoid high-risk individuals. Avoiding crowded places is must too.

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Testing -

Testing helps sick people determine what medication and treatment they need, such as Paxlovid for COVID or Tamiflu for the flu. Everyone should test and seek treatment early to reduce the possibility of developing severe outcomes from infections.

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Vaccine expansion -

In addition to the flu shot and COVID-19 boosters, RSV vaccines are available for specific high-risk groups, including babies, older adults, and pregnant individuals.

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Flu vaccine -

Every year when the flu season comes about, experts and scientists conduct research on what the dominant strain of the time is, and also how well matched the current flu vaccine is in fighting it. This takes many months, and patience is always needed.

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Trivalent -

Interestingly, this year’s flu vaccinations in the US are all trivalent, meaning that they protect against three strains of the flu virus: H1N1, H3N2, and influenza B.

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Vaccine recommendations -

The CDC recommends everyone over six months of age receive both a COVID-19 booster and flu shot this fall. For RSV, vaccines are advised for three categories of the population: older people, pregnant individuals, and babies. They offer protection against pneumonia-causing RSV infections.

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One-and-done -

Luckily, the RSV shot is currently a one-and-done experience, meaning that people don’t have to worry about an annual booster or a second vaccination.

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Combination -

You can receive both the flu shot and COVID-19 vaccine simultaneously. Experts recommend getting vaccinated by the end of October for optimal protection, although receiving the shots anytime before the new year is still beneficial.

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Limited protection - It’s important to remember that vaccinations protect from severe infection and potential hospitalization; they do not offer protection from infection altogether. However, there is a short window period after vaccination when a person’s antibodies are so high that they cannot get infected.

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Timing -

If you have a significant event coming up, like a trip or wedding, timing your COVID-19 vaccine a month before increases your chances of avoiding infection.

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COVID booster -

Despite some misconceptions, getting the updated COVID-19 vaccine is important for all age groups. However, it’s especially crucial for high-risk individuals, as they benefit most.

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Safety of vaccines -

All COVID-19 vaccines, including the Novavax option, are proven safe and effective in preventing severe outcomes. Novavax may cause fewer side effects, making it a preferable option for those concerned about reactions to mRNA vaccines like Pfizer and Moderna.

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Misinformation -

Misinformation about the safety and necessity of COVID-19 vaccines is growing. Recent surveys reveal that many Americans mistakenly believe that getting infected with COVID is safer than vaccination, despite this being far from true.

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Hand washing -

Although this probably sounds like a broken record playing the same song, basic hygiene measures should always be followed when it comes to illnesses. Hand washing is one of the best ways to curb potential illness.

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Touching -

Our hands touch some rather germy surfaces every day, often without us even thinking of it. As such, people should generally avoid touching their faces, as this increases the likelihood of encountering germs.

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Disinfection -

During the COVID-19 pandemic, society saw an uptick in the amount of available disinfection points. Malls, shops, pharmacies, and even office spaces became hypervigilant about keeping disinfectant on hand, and experts recommend that people continue following this trend.

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Masks -

It’s true: they’re uncomfortable and they feel rather restrictive, but masks are among the best possible measures that can be taken to prevent the spread of flu, RSV, or COVID infections. They should especially be worn by people who are sick but need to run an errand.

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Ventilation -

Ventilation is always important to prevent disease! Air can easily become stagnant and gather germs and dust (especially in closed office spaces) when there is no air movement. If you’re unable to crack a window, at least consider installing air purifiers.

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Healthy habits -

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle—including proper sleep, regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and stress management—can strengthen your immune system. These habits help your body better fight off respiratory infections and reduce the chances of severe illness.

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Gatherings -

If you’re planning on enjoying gatherings during the coming months (particularly over the holiday season), then the best way to avoid the spreading of illness is to ask everyone to get tested first, especially if some high-risk people will be making an appearance.

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Finding tests -

Rapid tests for both COVID and the flu are widely available at pharmacies, urgent care centers, and via healthcare providers. In the US, COVID tests are available for free via mail. It’s always important to be safe, and think of how a potential illness could impact others.

Sources: (Vox) (WebMD) (Mayo Clinic) (National Institutes of Health) (Time) (CDC)

See also: Simple ways to be healthier

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