To stay healthy this winter, get vaccinated and take simple steps to reduce spread of viruses. Get tested for flu and COVID if you develop symptoms, especially if you’re high-risk—antivirals work best within the first 2–3 days. (File photo)

CHENANGO COUNTY - Common colds, flu, and RSV are more common in colder months because people spend more time indoors, making it easier for viruses to spread. When one person in a household is sick, everyone else is at increased risk.

In the 2024–25 respiratory virus season, the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) reported about 40 million flu cases, 470,000 hospitalizations, and an estimated 28,000 deaths. The season also saw 280 pediatric deaths, the highest since child flu deaths became reportable. Young children, older adults, and people with chronic health conditions are more likely to develop severe illnesses or complications.

To stay healthy this winter, get vaccinated. Everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine, and a COVID booster is especially important for older adults, pregnant people, and anyone with chronic conditions such as asthma, COPD, diabetes, heart disease, or weakened immune systems. Vaccination can also reduce the severity of illness.

Take simple steps to reduce spread:

Stay home when sick until you’re improving and fever-free for 24 hours without medication.

Wash hands frequently and thoroughly.

Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or cough into your elbow.

Wear a mask to protect others if you’re sick, or to protect yourself in higher-risk settings.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.

Clean frequently touched surfaces.

Improve indoor air quality by opening windows, using air purifiers, or spending time outdoors when possible.

Get tested for flu and COVID if you develop symptoms, especially if you’re high-risk—antivirals work best within the first 2–3 days.

Remember, people with the flu can spread it two days before symptoms start and for about five days after becoming ill. Wearing a mask and taking precautions helps protect your family, coworkers, and community.

Vaccinations for influenza, COVID, RSV, pneumococcal disease, and pertussis are key tools for preventing severe illness. Stay healthy and happy this season.

For more information visit:

www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/respiratory_viruses/

www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/prevention/index.html

www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/winter-illness-guide

Persons with questions or requiring additional information may contact the Chenango County Health Department at (607) 337-1660.

- Information from the Chenango County Health Department