Press release: Each year, respiratory illnesses are responsible for millions of illnesses and thousands of hospitalizations and deaths in the United States. In addition to the virus that causes influenza (flu), there are many other types of respiratory viruses, including COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The good news is there are actions you can take to help protect yourself and others from health risks caused by respiratory viruses.
The best protection against respiratory illnesses is vaccination. Vaccines can prevent the worst symptoms and help keep you out of the hospital if you do become sick. If you have questions about any of the vaccines that can help prevent respiratory illness, please don’t hesitate to reach out and speak with one of our public health nurses. They are always happy to talk with you and answer any questions you may have. Call 360-378-4474 and ask to speak with a nurse.
Take these actions to keep you and your family safe from respiratory illnesses like influenza, COVID-19, and RSV:
- Get vaccinated, if possible. Vaccines are your best defense against respiratory illnesses. Some people who get vaccines may still get sick. However, vaccines help reduce the severity of your illness. It will also lower the chance of hospitalization and death.
- Stay home when you are sick. If you have any of the following symptoms, stay home until you feel better: fever, sore throat, cough, sneezing, headache, nausea and/or vomiting, and diarrhea.
- Consider masking. If you must go out while you are sick or if you are visiting a vulnerable family member, consider wearing a well-fitting mask to protect those around you. People are considered vulnerable if they are under six months old or over sixty years old or someone who is likely to become severely ill with an illness that seems mild to others.
- Cover your cough or sneeze. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or inside of your elbow when you cough or sneeze. Put your used tissue in the waste basket and wash your hands right away.
- Wash your hands regularly. Use soap and water. If there is no soap available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces that may be contaminated with viruses.
- Take antiviral drugs if your doctor prescribes them.
Relevant URLs: