Preventing colds and flu
It’s here – what is commonly called “cold and flu season”. Every year between October and May, people get more colds and flu than at other times of the year. Instances of Covid and RSV go up, too, with peak rates in December, January, and February.
Do these increases have to do with colder weather? Yes, indirectly, said Kate Anderson, RN, Open Door’s Director of Nursing. "Colds, flu, RSV, and Covid viruses travel easily through the air and on things we touch. When it’s colder outside, we are more likely to be inside, near other people and their germs. That's why people get sick more often during the fall and winter."
Because colds, flu, RSV, and Covid are caused by viruses, they don't respond to antibiotics. "In most cases, they last around two weeks and go away on their own if you rest and stay hydrated," said Anderson. "Healthcare providers can't cure these illnesses, but we can suggest ways to deal with symptoms like coughs, sore throats, or fevers. The very best strategy is to get your vaccines at the beginning of the season and stay clear of people who are sick."
Ways to Avoid Getting Sick
These simple practices can help you stay healthy during cold and flu season.
Get a flu vaccine. Most national health organizations agree – a flu vaccine is the best defense against the flu for adults and children older than 6 months. Flu vaccines are between 40-60% effective at preventing flu or serious symptoms. It takes a few weeks for the vaccine to create a full immune response, so don’t delay.
Get an RSV vaccine if you’re pregnant, younger than 19 months, or older than 75. Adults aged 50-74 with an elevated risk also should be vaccinated. RSV causes cold-like symptoms but can be dangerous for the very young and the elderly.
Talk to your healthcare provider about getting a Covid vaccine. The Covid vaccine helps protect you from severe illness, hospitalization and even death. The CDC recommends the Covid vaccine for most adults ages 18 and older.
If you’re sick, stay away from others. The best way to keep your germs to yourself is to not be around others until you feel better. While you’re at home, get lots of rest and drink water.
Always cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue. Even if you’re pretty sure you’re not sick, use a tissue anyway. Coughs and sneezes can spread viruses up to 12 feet away! Be sure to throw it away and wash your hands, too.
Speaking of washing your hands, do it many times a day. Use soap and water and wash up to your wrists. Don’t forget between fingers and under fingernails.
Keep your hands away from your eyes, nose, and mouth. If you need to touch them, make sure to wash your hands first.
Blow your nose a lot. A runny nose is one way the body gets rid of viruses.
When to Call Your Healthcare Provider
It’s important to get in touch with a healthcare provider right away if you have:
Fever higher than 104 degrees or that lasts longer than 4 days (and any fever in babies less than four months old)
Trouble breathing or swallowing
Blue lips or nails
A cough that causes choking or vomiting
Symptoms that don’t improve after 10 days
Any symptom that seems extra bad
If your healthcare provider is not available, seek care at an urgent care (like Open Door Urgent Care) or your local emergency department.
Sources: American Academy of Pediatrics, National Institutes of Health, Nemours Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Seattle Children’s Hospital