Winter Health Tips
This winter, you may hear about a ‘tripledemic’ or surge in COVID-19, flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). After two years of COVID-19 and prevention measures that have lowered our immunity against other illness and disease, we may not be as well prepared for flu or RSV as usual. Consider the tips below to help you and your family stay safe and healthy this winter:
Get a Flu Shot
The most effective way to avoid the flu is to get a flu shot every year before flu season begins. The flu shot is safe for everyone 6 months of age or older, and it is especially important for people at high risk for flu complications, such as children, pregnant women and seniors. Flu vaccines are safe, effective and offered at all 35 ACCESS locations. Find your local ACCESS health center here and schedule an appointment today to make sure you are prepared to take on this year’s flu season.
Wash your Hands
By washing your hands with warm soapy water, you are preventing the spread of germs to others while also protecting yourself from infection. Try to wash your hands for at least 20 seconds under warm water with soap. You should always wash your hands after using the restroom. Try not to put your hands on your face or mouth throughout the day. Remember, washing your hands with soap and water kills more germs than using hand sanitizer alone. Hand sanitizers will work if you are at a location without water, but re-wash your hands with soap and running water as soon as possible.
Consider Wearing a Mask
Social distancing and wearing a mask in crowded public locations are proven methods to reduce the spread of infection. If you or your child have been sick or you are visiting newborns, wear a mask to prevent RSV.
Protect Yourself and Others from COVID-19
A completed COVID-19 vaccine series and booster are the most effective way to prevent and reduce the severity of COVID-19. Before attending large gatherings, testing for COVID-19 as a precaution can help you reduce the risk of unknowingly spreading COVID-19.
How We Can Help
ACCESS offers testing, flu shots and COVID vaccines and boosters at all 35 ACCESS health center locations. Call 866.267.2353 to schedule an appointment today.
As of December 14, 2022