There are numerous viral illnesses that can easily spread during holiday gatherings. Some illnesses- like colds, COVID-19, and the flu- are contagious and can infect others before symptoms arise. Large holiday gatherings can result in an uptick of infections, straining our already overburdened healthcare system. While the pandemic rages on, increases in cases of RSV and flu are on the rise, too. Preventing viral illness protects the community by reducing additional strain on our hospitals. Simple precautions can protect your family from contagious viral illnesses during your holiday gatherings.

Flu

Influenza remains a serious threat to the health and well-being of our loved ones, especially older adults. According to data released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there have been at least 8.7 million flu infections this season¹.
Symptoms of the flu include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Muscle or body aches
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Sore throat
• Runny nose

Although treatment is generally limited to supportive care, there are also antiviral medications available. In order to be effective, the antivirals must be started as soon as possible. Because the best prevention is vaccination, it is important to get an annual flu vaccine if you haven’t yet received one.

Covid

The pandemic isn’t over! AlthoughCOVID-19 precautions have relaxed in many places, it is necessary to remain vigilant about the spread of COVID-19. The updated vaccine is formulated to target recent virulent strains like omicron. Symptoms of COVID-19 can include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Muscle or body aches
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Loss of smell

Because COVID-19 can spread before symptoms begin, asymptomatic testing should be considered before gatherings. This is particularly important if you have unvaccinated or high-risk family members.

RSV

RSV cases are on the rise, particularly in children, and are frequently spread in environments like schools and daycares. RSV symptoms include:

• Coughing or wheezing
• Sneezing
• Runny nose
• Decreased appetite
• Fever

Avoid sharing items used by infected people, such as bottles, toys, and utensils. Clean and disinfect frequently used objects and surfaces, like mobile devices and doorknobs. Keeping children at home if they have symptoms reduces RSV transmission to teachers or other children.

Symptom Comparison

It can be difficult to tell the differences between viral illnesses, especially COVID-19 and the flu, because the symptoms can be similar. Both of these illnesses can cause:

• Fever
• Cough
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Sore throat
• Muscle pain or body aches
• Headache
• Vomiting

Although flu symptoms appear quicker, COVID-19 is infectious for a longer period of time. The CDC recommends getting tested for COVID-19 and influenza simultaneously². For more information on the differences between these illnesses, visit the CDC’s comparative webpage.

How Illness Spreads

Viruses can spread through respiratory secretions in the air. Covering coughs and sneezes, wearing a mask, and social distancing prevent illness by reducing the exposure to droplets in the air. Surfaces can remain infectious, too. Washing your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds prevents transferring viruses from infected surfaces to your body.

Keep Your Family Illness-Free

As disease outbreaks loom, don’t let infectious disease darken your holiday season. Here is a simple checklist to reduce the spread of illness over the holidays.

• Avoid close contact with infected people
• Avoid sharing objects (including toys, cups, utensils, and bottles)
• Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or upper sleeve
• Avoiding touching your face with unwashed hands
• Stay home if sick and avoid contact with others
• Wear a mask or use other preventative measures, like social distancing, whenever possible
• Clean and disinfect frequently used objects and surfaces, such as mobile devices and doorknobs
• Stay up to date on seasonal vaccines, like COVID-19 and the flu
• Consider asymptomatic testing for COVID-19 prior to gatherings
• Cook food thoroughly, avoid cross contamination, and store food properly

These easy methods will help prevent the spread of infectious diseases and foodborne illness. Enjoy holiday gatherings with your loved ones safely and responsibly- and remain illness free in the process!

References

Download Avoiding Illness During the Holidays Infographic