Prepare for Fall: Health Experts Stress Vaccination and Hygiene to Combat Viruses

As the fall season approaches, health experts are urging individuals to take proactive measures to reduce the risk of respiratory infections. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), rates of respiratory viruses, including flu, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), are currently low but are on the rise as people begin to gather indoors for the upcoming season. Dr. Robert Jacobson, the medical director of the Mayo Clinic's Primary Care Immunization Program, emphasizes that everyone is at risk for respiratory infections, including the flu, which can strike individuals multiple times within the same year. Each year, it is estimated that around 10% to 20% of the population contracts the flu, highlighting the importance of preventive measures. Dr. Jacobson's primary recommendation is straightforward: get vaccinated. Vaccination serves as a critical tool in bolstering the body's defenses against respiratory illnesses. "This is specific protection your body can make to protect you and your loved ones," he asserts. In addition to vaccination, maintaining proper hand hygiene plays a vital role in preventing infections. Dr. Jacobson recommends washing hands with soap and water, especially before meals, after returning home from work or daycare, and after using the restroom. He advises that washing should last at least 20 seconds, or, if soap and water are unavailable, using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol. Beyond these foundational practices, Dr. Jacobson offers several additional strategies to minimize the risk of respiratory infections. First, individuals should avoid touching their faces, particularly the eyes, nose, and mouth, to prevent germs from entering the body. Coughing and sneezing into a tissue or the elbow is also essential, alongside washing hands afterward. Another effective tactic is to regularly clean frequently touched surfaces to remove any viruses that may linger. This is especially important in communal spaces where the likelihood of germ transmission increases. Finally, avoiding crowded places during peak flu season is crucial. The flu virus spreads swiftly in environments such as schools, office buildings, and public transportation. By steering clear of crowded areas, individuals can significantly lower their chances of infection. If one does fall ill, Dr. Jacobson emphasizes the importance of staying home to prevent spreading infections to others. Taking these steps can not only protect personal health but also safeguard the broader community during the forthcoming respiratory virus season.