COVID-19 Is on the Rise: How to Stay Healthy During the Fall Season
- COVID-19 activity is increasing in parts of the United States, making fall respiratory illness precautions especially important for families.
- Staying current on recommended vaccines, staying home when sick, and practicing good hygiene can reduce COVID-19 transmission.
- Masks may provide additional protection in crowded indoor settings, during elevated respiratory virus activity, or when symptoms develop.
As families head back to school and prepare for fall activities, COVID-19 is once again showing signs of increased activity. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), COVID-19 is spreading across the country, particularly in the South and West.
Now that school is in session and there’s more sporting events and extracurricular activities happening, it’s a good time to take simple steps to reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses like COVID-19.
Stay up to date on recommended vaccines. Talk with your doctor about whether you or your child should receive an updated COVID-19 vaccine, as well as other recommended immunizations.
Stay home when you’re sick. If you or your child develops symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, congestion, or fatigue, avoid close contact with others until you’re feeling better. Consider testing for COVID-19 if symptoms develop, particularly if you or someone in your household is at high risk for severe illness.
Practice good hygiene. Frequent handwashing or using hand sanitizer can help reduce the spread of respiratory viruses. Cover coughs and sneezes and avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Consider wearing a mask in higher-risk situations. Masks can provide an additional layer of protection, especially in crowded indoor settings or when respiratory virus activity is high. The CDC also recommends wearing a mask when you have respiratory symptoms to avoid spreading illness.
Know your risk. Older adults, people with certain medical conditions, and others at increased risk for COVID-19 should take extra precautions and talk with their doctor about prevention and treatment options.
Back-to-school season doesn’t have to mean back to worrying about COVID-19. A few simple precautions can help families stay healthy and enjoy the activities that make fall special.