As the winter season approaches, so does the annual challenge of keeping your family healthy amidst the cold and flu season, the ongoing threat of COVID-19 and the emergence of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). These respiratory illnesses can be particularly concerning for families, but there are proactive steps you can take to safeguard your loved ones and enjoy a safe and healthy winter season.
Understanding the Common Seasonal Respiratory Conditions
Before we delve into the practical steps to protect your family, it’s essential to understand the common respiratory conditions that pose a threat during the winter months.
- The Common Cold: Adults typically get a cold two to three times a year, while kids often catch it six to eight times. Over 200 viruses, mainly rhinovirus, cause it. They follow a seasonal pattern, with rhinovirus peaking in September, parainfluenza in the following months and cold-causing coronaviruses and adenoviruses in winter. You can get a cold year-round, thanks to enterovirus. It mainly affects your nose, sinuses, or throat, starting with mild symptoms that worsen over a few days. Common cold symptoms typically linger for 14 days.
- Influenza (The Flu): The flu spreads rapidly through coughs, sneezes, or talking and can travel up to 6 feet and survive on surfaces for up to 48 hours. Unlike a cold, the flu comes on suddenly with severe symptoms but typically does not cause vomiting or diarrhea in adults.
- Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV): RSV is a common respiratory virus, typically causing mild cold-like symptoms. However, it can become severe, especially in young children and older adults, potentially requiring hospitalization.
- COVID-19: Caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, COVID-19 can range from mild to severe, sometimes making it challenging to distinguish from other illnesses. Loss of smell is one potential symptom, but testing is crucial to confirm the diagnosis.
Essential Tips for a Healthy Winter
Now that you’re familiar with these respiratory threats, let’s explore the key steps to protect your family:
- Get Vaccinated and Boosted: Vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to prevent severe illness and death from the flu and COVID-19. The RSV vaccine is also available for infants from birth to 8 months of age and for some high-risk infants and toddlers through 19 months of age. It’s not too late to get your shots, and you can receive both vaccines simultaneously. Consult your doctor to determine the right vaccines and doses for your family.
- Stay Home if You’re Sick: If you or a family member feel unwell, staying home helps slow the spread of viruses. Promptly test for COVID-19. In the event of a positive test result, contact your healthcare provider for guidance on managing your recovery at home. Many practices offer convenient secure portals for messaging your provider.
- Masking and Hygiene: Wearing masks indoors can significantly reduce the spread of infection, especially among those unable to wear masks themselves. Frequent handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, proper tissue disposal, surface disinfection, and avoiding sharing items help prevent illness.
- Boost Natural Immunity: Adequate sleep, regular physical activity, a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and effective stress management all bolster natural immunity.
- Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest guidance and recommendations from your healthcare provider so you can make informed decisions.
Take Action to Protect Your Family
As the winter season approaches, take proactive steps to protect your family’s health. Schedule flu shots and COVID-19 vaccinations without delay and remember that prevention is your most potent shield. Your proactive choices and actions play a vital role in ensuring your loved ones stay safe and healthy this winter. Consult your doctor to determine the best vaccination plan for your family, and let’s make this winter a healthy one for all.
Dr. Tekeema Dixon is pediatric chief of the Baltimore pediatrics department and pediatrician at Kaiser Permanente South Baltimore County Medical Center. Her interest in adolescent health was cultivated during her invaluable experience at a community health center in the Bronx, New York, where she dedicated her time to initiatives aimed at establishing standardized care practices for this specific age group. Dixon is also recognized as a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics.
