As respiratory virus season reaches its peak, the Georgia Department of Public Health’s Southeast Health District encourages everyone to take proactive steps to safeguard their health. The best defense against severe illness, hospitalizations, and complications from COVID-19, flu, and RSV is vaccination.
With colder weather driving more people indoors, the risk of respiratory virus transmission increases. Staying up to date on vaccinations is a simple yet effective way to protect yourself and your community.
“Getting vaccinated is one of the most important steps you can take to stay healthy this winter,” said Dr. Rosemarie D. Parks, District Health Director for the Southeast Health District. “Whether it’s the updated COVID-19 vaccine, the annual flu shot, or the newly available RSV vaccine for eligible individuals, these immunizations offer crucial protection and help prevent the spread of illness.”
In addition to vaccination, there are several other preventative measures you can take to stay a step ahead of these viruses, including staying home if you’re feeling unwell, washing your hands frequently, cleaning and disinfecting surfaces regularly, covering your coughs and sneezes, limiting close contact with those at higher risk, and wearing a face covering in crowded indoor spaces. By incorporating these habits into your routine, you can help curb the spread of respiratory viruses and contribute to a healthier season for everyone.
Vaccines and immunizations are available as a walk-in service at all health departments within the Southeast Health District. To learn more about COVID-19, flu, and RSV, prevention methods, and vaccine eligibility, visit www.sehdph.org/Respiratory-Viruses. For additional questions or more information, please call 1(855)473-4374.
