As the weather changes and people spend more time indoors, colds, influenza, COVID-19, RSV and other seasonal illnesses can spread more easily. Taking a few practical steps can help protect your health and the well-being of the people around you throughout the fall and winter months.
This information was recently shared with Service Coordination, Inc. (SCI) Team Members by our staff nurse, Jenna Hoffman, RN, BSN.
Why Seasonal Illnesses Increase
Changes in weather can affect the immune system, while more time indoors can increase exposure to airborne germs and contaminated surfaces. Common fall and winter illnesses include colds, influenza, COVID-19, RSV, pneumonia, bronchitis, strep throat and norovirus, sometimes called the stomach virus.
Know the Symptoms
Symptoms vary by illness but may include fever, chills, fatigue, a runny or stuffy nose, cough, sore throat, headache, body aches, loss of taste or smell, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. Young children, older adults, pregnant people, people with other medical conditions and those with weakened immune systems may face a higher risk of complications.
Five Ways to Protect Yourself and Others
- Stay current on recommended vaccines. Talk with your healthcare provider about vaccines that may be right for you, including flu, COVID-19, RSV, pneumococcal and Tdap vaccines. Vaccination can reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization and death.
- Wash your hands often. Use soap and water and scrub for at least 20 seconds, including the backs of your hands, between your fingers and under your nails. Hand sanitizer can help when soap and water are unavailable, but it may be less effective against some stomach viruses.
- Cover coughs and sneezes. Use a tissue, then throw it away and wash your hands. If a tissue is not available, cough or sneeze into your elbow rather than your hands.
- Give others space when illness is present. Avoid close contact and stay home when you are sick. Follow current healthcare guidance before returning to regular activities.
- Keep shared spaces clean and well ventilated. Regularly clean high-touch surfaces such as phones, remotes, doorknobs, light switches, faucets and countertops. Use an appropriate disinfectant, improve airflow when possible and avoid smoking indoors.
When You Are Sick
Contact your healthcare provider when you are sick to ask whether testing, treatment or an appointment is recommended. Follow up if symptoms do not improve or begin to worsen. Stay home until you have been fever-free without fever-reducing medication and have felt better for at least 24 hours. For a stomach virus, remain home for 48 hours after symptoms have ended.
Seek immediate medical care for severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, coughing up blood, a severe headache or confusion. This information is for general education and does not replace guidance from a qualified healthcare professional.
Prepare Before Illness Arrives
Consider keeping a thermometer, tissues, soap, hand sanitizer, disinfecting supplies, masks and any provider-recommended over-the-counter items on hand. Check expiration dates, maintain a current list of medications and healthcare contacts, and make a plan for meals, transportation or other support if you need to stay home.
Small Steps Support Healthier Communities
Seasonal illness prevention is about more than protecting ourselves. It is also a way to care for family members, neighbors and the wider community. At Service Coordination, Inc., we believe clear information and practical resources help people make informed, person-centered choices that support their health, independence and quality of life. By preparing now and practicing healthy habits every day, we can help one another stay well all season long.