Articles & Education

Respiratory Virus Resources (Flu, COVID-19 and RSV)

October 30, 2023

Protect yourself and your loved ones from respiratory viruses this fall and winter.

It’s that time of year again – the season where we tend to see an increase in respiratory viruses like RSV, flu and COVID-19. The good news is there are steps we can take to protect ourselves from infection, severe illness and hospitalization.

When should I get vaccinated against respiratory viruses?

This year, there are updated options for protection against respiratory viruses. If eligible, you can get your annual vaccinations against COVID-19, flu and RSV at the same time.

New RSV prevention options – What you need to know.

Respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. Most people recover in a week or two, but RSV can be serious. Infants and older adults are more likely to develop severe RSV, which could result in hospitalization. To protect against severe RSV, vaccines are available for older adults and monoclonal antibody products are available for infants and young children. Learn more about prevention options and eligibility here.

How else can I stay healthy?

Aside from vaccination, there are other preventative measures that can be taken to help keep the flu, COVID-19 and RSV at bay.

  • Wash your hands frequently.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Do not kiss infants and young children who are at high risk for severe infection from RSV and other viruses.
  • Cough and sneeze into your elbow.
  • Avoid touching your face.

What are my treatment options if I do get sick?

If you have flu or COVID-19 symptoms, it’s important to get tested at the onset of symptoms and get treated as soon as possible. Flu tests can be administered by your health care provider. COVID-19 tests are available from your provider and also are widely available at your local pharmacy and other retailers. Treatment options are available for both flu and COVID-19.

Don’t forget to check the expiration date on your at-home COVID-19 tests, especially if they were not purchased recently.