Three simple steps to protect against three respiratory diseases

Health experts expect several respiratory viruses, including COVID-19, flu, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), to spread during the same time this fall and winter. They can be severe, especially among people at higher risk. Take three simple steps to protect yourself, your loved ones, and our communities.

Step 1

Get all of your recommended vaccines, including flu and COVID-19, to prevent you and others you care about from getting really sick. Flu, COVID-19, and other routine immunizations can reduce the risk of serious illness, especially for those most at risk, including young children, older adults, people with weakened immune systems, and those who are pregnant. The sooner you get these immunizations, the sooner you will be protected and the sooner you can help protect others.

Step 2

Take everyday protective steps like covering coughs and sneezes (into a tissue), frequent handwashing, and staying home when you’re sick. When you are sick, take antiviral medications if prescribed by your doctor.

Step 3

Talk with your health care provider about your or your child’s risk for severe RSV, the potential benefits of new RSV immunizations, and if the immunizations are covered by your insurance. Older adults are at greater risk for serious complications from RSV because our bodies weaken with age. Older adults with certain medical conditions may especially benefit from the RSV vaccine. A new RSV immunization can now help protect all babies younger than 8 months and other young children from the leading cause of hospitalization in the U.S.

Important respiratory virus facts

Immunizations don’t just protect you and your loved ones. They also may reduce the strain on our hospitals and health care workers.

For More Information

Flu info

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Colorado COVID-19 info

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RSV info

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Getting treatment for COVID-19

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