How to Stay Healthy This Season

Posted on December 18th, 2024

‘Tis the season for cool weather and fun celebrations, but did you know there is an increase in illnesses such as influenza (flu), COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and norovirus.

Remember these simple steps to help keep yourself and your loved ones healthy this season!

 

How To Avoid Getting Sick! 

Wash your hands often. 

Use soap and water and have hand sanitizer available, especially at gatherings. Hand sanitizer is ineffective against some germs, especially gastrointestinal illnesses like norovirus. Hand washing is preferred.

Stay up to date on recommended vaccines.

Make an appointment to get all recommended vaccines, including seasonal ones such as influenza.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.

Consider wearing a mask when traveling or in crowds.

 

What To Do When You’re Sick!

Stay home and isolate yourself from others in your household when you’re sick.

Learn when to stay home from work or school.

Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue, or use your inner elbow.

Don’t forget to wash your hands after coughing or sneezing.

Do not cook or serve others when sick, especially when experiencing nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Seek testing to determine which illness you are experiencing

  • For testing, see your healthcare provider, a GNR Public Health center, your local pharmacy, or use an at-home testing option.
  • For COVID, use a reliable at-home antigen test kit from the health department, your local pharmacy, or the federal government. Get free COVID tests delivered or call to find out if free COVID test kits are available at our health centers.
  • For flu and COVID, you can self-test at one of three convenient health department kiosks. Testing kiosks are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week! Find a kiosk near you.
  • For RSV and norovirus, contact your medical provider to get tested.

Consult your healthcare provider right away if symptoms aren’t manageable or worsen.

GNR Public Health wishes you a healthy and happy holiday!

For additional information about staying healthy this time of year, check out the CDC’s Steps to Help You Stay Healthy During the Holidays.