As October settles in, cooler weather brings more than just colorful leaves, bugling elk, pumpkin patches – and an early snow. It also signals the start of flu season and an increase in other respiratory illnesses such as RSV and COVID-19.
Public health preparedness, the focus of my work, is not only about being ready for large-scale disasters, but also about protecting ourselves, our families and our communities from seasonal health threats such as influenza. Taking simple steps today can reduce the risk of illness through the fall and keep our community strong as we migrate indoors to ride out the winter.
Each year, influenza and other respiratory viruses cause millions of illnesses in the United States, leading to missed work and school, hospitalizations and in some cases, death. The risk is higher for young children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with chronic health conditions. With multiple viruses circulating at the same time, prevention becomes even more important.
