With respiratory viruses such as COVID-19, influenza and RSV circulating at high levels nationwide, and in Wisconsin, ThedaCare is urging community members to protect themselves this holiday season.
“With increasing cases of the three viruses, the season has the potential to be severe, especially for young children and older adults,” said Dr. Zachary Baeseman, ThedaCare family medicine practitioner. “In recent years, more people were wearing face masks and were more likely to stay home while sick. This year, because many people are no longer masking and taking those precautions, we are seeing increased cases. Also, children who haven’t been previously exposed to respiratory viruses are getting sick, and they are then passing it on to loved ones and others.”
Vaccines are especially important for those at higher risk of becoming seriously ill, according to Baeseman. That includes the elderly, pregnant women, young children and those with weakened immune systems and chronic diseases such as diabetes, lung diseases, high blood pressure, and those going through cancer treatment.
Flu season is already hitting hard across the country, and hospitals are continuing to see high numbers of respiratory illnesses cases.
“We’re asking everyone to take precautions and receive all recommended vaccines, including the updated COVID-19 booster and the flu vaccine, to help prevent and slow the spread of respiratory illnesses,” said Baeseman.
According to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, fewer than 15% of Wisconsinites have gotten their updated COVID-19 booster.
Everyone 6 months and older can get their COVID-19 and flu vaccines at the same time. Everyone 5 years and older should also get an updated COVID-19 booster when eligible. The updated COVID-19 booster provides increased protection against Omicron variants, which cause most of the current COVID-19 cases.
In addition to getting all recommended vaccines, community members should take extra steps when planning their holiday celebrations. Respiratory viruses spread more easily when people are gathered indoors. Precautions include:
• If feeling sick, get tested. People can order free COVID-19 rapid tests and access testing at many community locations across the state.
• If sick, stay home. This helps protect others, especially those who are most vulnerable.
• Check COVID-19 community levels for information about the amount of severe illness before any holiday celebration. If the level is high, wear a well-fitting mask when inside public places around others.
• Frequently wash hands with soap and water to help prevent the spread of all respiratory illnesses, and cover coughs and sneezes to avoid spreading germs.
“Most people, who do find themselves with an illness at this time, and who are not at risk for severe illness, can likely stay home,” said Baeseman. “Those with a mild illness will experience a low fever, aches and pains or a mild cough. If you have these symptoms, stay at home and isolate. Rest, drink plenty of fluids and monitor your symptoms. Hopefully, you will start feeling better within a few days.”
Baeseman added that anyone at higher risk for severe infection, or who is concerned about symptoms, should contact their primary care provider’s office.
ThedaCare encourages caution during holidays
