Doctors Are Warning About A Dangerous Respiratory Illness That’s Surging As COVID Cases Drop

As we head into virus season, now’s the time to think about the steps you can take to stay healthy this fall and winter, Gordon said.

“We’d rather prevent, obviously, than treat,” said Gordon. The best protection against the flu is the flu shot, “and it’s still recommended for anyone greater than six months of age,” he added.

The best way to prevent a severe COVID-19 infection and hospitalization is by getting the COVID shot, too.

“Now that we have COVID vaccination available and influenza vaccination available, it takes several weeks for us to develop immunity, so now is a really great time to get vaccinated,” Sood said.

COVID vaccination is still a safe and effective way to reduce how sick you get. “There was a study that just came out … showing that in the VA [Veterans] Health Systems, that even in this last season, COVID-19 vaccination reduced hospitalizations, deaths and ER visits in the VA population,” Sood explained.

You can get your flu shot and COVID shot at the same time, and they’re available at pharmacies throughout the country. It’s best to talk to your doctor or local pharmacy about COVID shot eligibility in your area.

It’s also important to take care of your health overall by exercising and eating nutritious meals, Sood said. This can help protect you from respiratory viruses. Washing your hands is also a good way to stay well.

“Another thing people can do is stay away from people that are sick,” said Foster. 

If you’re at the airport and notice someone is coughing and sneezing near you, get up and move. Or if you’re the one sneezing and coughing, stay home or wear a mask if you have to be around other people.

“That’s part of good citizenship, of trying to protect other people,” Foster said.