It is that time of year where many different sicknesses are being passed around. COVID-19, influenza, and RSV are a few of the different illnesses that people are susceptible to this season. The cold weather outside means that these viruses can more easily be passed on to people. Luckily, there are a number of things you can do to keep you and your loved ones safe. 

The first thing you can do to keep yourself safe is to avoid people who are sick. While it is hard to avoid interacting with people who are sick, try to minimize your contact with them the best that you can. Try not to eat after them or use things that they have touched. If you have to use something after them, clean and disinfect those surfaces. 

Another tip to keep you and your loved ones safe is to wash your hands. Washing your hands can help remove germs and prevent the spread of them to other surfaces and people. If there is no sink or bathroom around, use hand sanitizer as an alternative. Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer after meals and after touching surfaces that may have been touched by many people. 

The last thing you can do to be safe is to wear a mask. Since most of these illnesses are airborne diseases, wearing a mask can help prevent you from getting sick. The proper way to wear a mask is to wear it covering your nose, mouth, and chin. The times that you should be wearing a mask are indoors, when around other people, and if you are sick. If you are not able to wear a mask, try to avoid large gatherings with people, especially when indoors. 

Staying safe is very important, especially during the winter season . People are often traveling and visiting family during this time , which makes it easier to spread the virus. There are also populations who have a higher risk of death from contracting these viruses. These people include the elderly, cancer patients, and people who are immunocompromised. Remember to follow these tips to protect both yourself and others and to stay safe.