According to federal health data, respiratory illnesses haven’t significantly started spreading in the U.S. yet.

However, as indoor gatherings increase over the holidays, this is likely to change. The fall and winter months typically see a rise in infections from COVID-19, the flu, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) anticipates that this season could see as many or even fewer hospitalizations from respiratory viruses compared to last year. They recently indicated that the peak of COVID-19 this winter could surpass the surge observed last August.

This means it’s essential to prepare ahead of time before visiting family and friends, especially the young and elderly.

Dr. Jesse Bracamonte, a family physician at the Mayo Clinic in Arizona, noted, “I know my family and friends are tired of hearing me say this; however, it’s crucial because respiratory illness season returns every fall and winter, especially during the holidays. You don’t want to be unwell when your loved ones are gathering together.”

Here are some straightforward strategies to help you stay healthy and prevent the spread of illness to others.

Get Vaccinated

The latest COVID-19 and flu vaccines are safe for everyone aged 6 months and older. Receiving these vaccines before the holiday season can significantly reduce your chances of getting sick and can protect against serious respiratory illnesses that may lead to hospitalization or death.

The RSV vaccine is also accessible to elderly individuals, pregnant women, and infants. Once vaccinated, many individuals may have long-lasting protection, according to health experts.

Practice Good Hand Hygiene

Keeping your hands clean is vital.

Remember to wet your hands, apply soap, scrub for at least 20 seconds, rinse, and dry using a clean towel or air dryer.

Washing your hands frequently lowers the risk of spreading germs via coughs, sneezes, or by touching your face. Hand sanitizers with a minimum of 60% alcohol are also effective at killing germs.

Additionally, covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze can help limit the spread of germs.

Stay Home If You’re Sick

The CDC’s current guidance for people infected with COVID-19 is similar to its recommendations for other respiratory illnesses: Stay home if you exhibit symptoms of a respiratory virus. Symptoms include fever, chills, fatigue, cough, runny nose, and headaches.

You can return to regular activities when your symptoms improve after a full day and you’ve been fever-free (without using fever-reducing medications).

Remember, after recovering, you can still transmit the virus. The CDC advises taking precautions for an extra five days to prevent spreading germs, which includes wearing masks, maintaining distance, testing, and ensuring good ventilation.

Keep an eye on your symptoms, and if you experience breathing difficulties or chest pain, seek immediate medical help.

Understanding Walking Pneumonia

The CDC reported an increase in “walking pneumonia” cases in October, which is a milder form of bacterial pneumonia. Symptoms include cough, fatigue, tiredness, and wheezing. This condition particularly affects younger individuals, who may show unexpected vitality for someone with a lung infection.

Walking pneumonia spreads when droplets from a cough or sneeze linger in the air and are inhaled by others. To prevent this bacterial infection, follow the same preventative measures as those for respiratory viruses: wash your hands, cover up when coughing or sneezing, and stay home if you’re feeling unwell.

Dr. Bracamonte suggests that maintaining your immune health includes regular exercise, sufficient sleep, and managing stress levels.