‘Tis the season of SO many respiratory viruses!
As we approach the festive season how can we enjoy precious moments with family and friends while lowering the risk of getting or spreading illness?
Think in terms of harm reduction: a little bit better is a little bit better.
Small steps you take to reduce risk are worthwhile.
And the prevention steps that work for COVID will reduce the risk of RSV, flu, “walking pneumonia” and many other nasty bugs.
💥 Top Nerdy Girl Thanksgiving tips:
🤒 Stay home if sick.
We know this is a gray area with perpetually snotty kids. Try to use your common sense if visiting grandparents, young babies, or other vulnerable loved ones. If anyone feels feverish or really cruddy, that’s a good sign they are contagious with SOME virus you’d rather not pass on.
🧪 Test for COVID prior to traveling or gathering, especially if you have any symptoms. New home tests can even test for both COVID and flu. Knowledge is power- knowing your status means you can seek anti-viral treatment for COVID or Flu and reduce your risk of severe disease. You can also take steps to protect those around you.
🪟 Ventilate. Open windows or hang out outside when weather permits.
Use HEPA filters for additional protection.
For tips on improving home ventilation, read here.
😷 Mask strategically.
Masks (N95 quality) effectively block inhalation and exhalation of COVID AND other respiratory viruses. Masking during travel can help protect yourself and others even if you don’t mask during family events. Use strategic masking if you find yourself developing symptoms during your holiday.
🧼 Wash hands and disinfect high-touch surfaces.
While COVID dominates the air rather than hands, RSV and many other germs last longer on surfaces. Break out that hand sanitizer and those Lysol wipes again, especially before eating (but old-fashioned soap and water works great, too).
💉 Get your updated COVID AND flu shot (and RSV and pneumococcal vaccines if you are eligible). It’s never too late to protect yourself for the rest of the winter.
It’s remarkable that we now have vaccines for many of the infections that fill up our hospitals each winter. Let’s use them!
🙏 Enjoy your loved ones and be thankful. Gratitude is healthy for the body and the soul.
Every little bit of prevention counts. Don’t let the perfect be the enemy of the good!
Much love,
Those Nerdy Girls
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