Stay Ahead of Respiratory Virus Season February 1, 2024 With more people spending time indoors for school, work, recreation and worship during winter months, an increase in respiratory viruses can be expected. Respiratory viruses including COVID-19 are a concern for people with higher health risk factors including those with underlying health conditions, compromised immunity and the elderly. Fortunately, vaccines, testing and treatments are available to help people minimize risk and manage symptoms. “While COVID-19 today has evolved to cause less severe disease due to changes in the virus and widespread population immunity, it remains an extremely contagious virus that can cause significant illness in our most vulnerable populations,” said Adam Brady, MD, chair of Samaritan’s Respiratory and Emerging Pathogens Committee. Influenza (the flu) and respiratory syncytial virus, also known as RSV, are two other seasonal viruses that cause respiratory infections and result in severe illness or even death, particularly in older adults, pregnant women, young children and those with underlying medical issues. Flu and RSV infections typically peak between December and February. Safe and effective vaccines are the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones against COVID-19 and flu; and this year, for the first time, there is an RSV vaccine to protect people 60 years and older as well as two immunization options to protect newborns. Nirsevimab, a monoclonal antibody, was recently approved for infants while Pfizer’s bivalent RSVpreF vaccine was approved for pregnant people between 32 and 36 weeks of gestation. Tips to Prepare Yourself Get your seasonal flu vaccine at a flu clinic, your primary care provider’s office, a pharmacy or your local public health department. People 60 years and older should also talk to their doctor about whether they should also get the RSV vaccine. Practice preventive measures like washing your hands, covering your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze, cleaning surfaces often and staying home when sick. Consider masking in higher risk indoor settings and if an individual is high risk. Ensure you are up to date with COVID-19 vaccines or boosters. Familiarize yourself with how to manage respiratory virus symptoms, including when and where to seek care if your symptoms are severe. Learn more at samhealth.org/WhereToGo. Following these tips, can help minimize the spread of virus, keeping the community safe and healthy. Before visiting a Samaritan location this winter, check for masking requirements and visitor restrictions at samhealth.org/Visitors.
