Anyone who has ever had a respiratory virus knows it’s no fun. Fortunately, you can take several proactive steps to lessen the chances of contracting these and other viruses.
Follow these tips for avoiding germs:
- If you’re sick, stay home. If a fever persists for longer than 24 hours, contact your primary care provider or pediatrician. Your provider will know if you need to be tested for both flu and COVID-19 to be sure you or your child is not contagious.
- Frequently wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds.
- Don’t touch your face or rub your eyes.
- Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze.
- Wipe down frequently used surfaces with disinfecting wipes.
- Get vaccinated for both flu and COVID-19 in preparation for the upcoming season.
Help boost your immune system by incorporating these daily habits:
- Eat a healthy diet.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Get a good night’s rest.
- Fit in some exercise several times a week.
- Destress whenever possible.
Finding care if you get sick with a respiratory virus
If you have difficulty breathing or other life-threatening or serious symptoms, you should seek emergency care immediately. If you think you have a respiratory virus and the symptoms are mild, contact your primary care provider.
If and when you need to take action for you or your family, go to wakehhealth.edu/getcare.
Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist HealthMinute
Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist has convenient options for you and your family throughout the holidays, including extended hours and weekend availability. Book an appointment or reserve a spot online today.Speaker 1
The Health Minute is brought to you by Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist.
Max Vinograd
At the holidays, we see more flu, RSV, COVID and other respiratory illnesses. When you're busy and not feeling well, it can be hard to figure out what type of care you need. Here are some ways to help make the decision between primary care and urgent care. If you think you have a virus or have mild symptoms, contact your primary care provider. Your primary care provider can also offer preventative care, like flu shots. If it's a minor illness or injury, just walk into urgent care. For colds and flu, UTIs, minor cuts, and sprained ankles, urgent care is perfect. Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist has convenient options for you and your family throughout the holidays, including extended hours and on weekends. Book an appointment or reserve a spot online today.