Hot Topics     Home and Family     Women's Health     Healthy Kids     Teen Health     Health Guide    

5 ways to protect yourself and your loved ones this holiday season



Tips from the American Lung Association

protect yourself and your loved ones this holiday season

The holidays are right around the corner, and experts are already seeing a rise in respiratory illnesses like influenza (flu) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). In addition, COVID-19 continues to be a serious health threat in the United States.

As you gather with family and friends this holiday season, remember that one of the most important gifts you can give your loved ones is the gift of health. For a healthier, happier season, the American Lung Association offers these five tips:

1. Get your COVID-19 and flu shots: The single best way to stay healthy and protect others is to be up to date on your recommended COVID-19 vaccinations and make sure all of your loved ones – from those aged 6 months to 100+ years – are also up to date on theirs. This includes the new COVID-19 booster shot, which is expected to provide protection against the most recent variants and subvariants. It’s also time for your annual flu shot. Staying current with all your vaccinations is key to protecting your health.

2. Keep your medications and mask with you: If you are traveling, make sure to keep your regular medications and a mask with you (not in your checked luggage). It is good to have a mask on hand if you are with someone who is immunocompromised and prefers you to wear one.


3. Consider testing: Before large gatherings, consider doing an at-home COVID-19 test as an added layer of confidence that you are healthy. The average cost of a two-pack self-test at the drugstore is $25 and is covered by most insurance policies.

4. Wash your hands often: Scrub with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If you’re unable to wash your hands, using hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol is a good alternative. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, as it allows the germs on your hands to reach moist, porous surface tissue where the germs can enter your body and cause infection.

5. Stay home if you’re sick: Stay home when you are feeling ill. If you have symptoms of COVID-19 or flu, you should test immediately and contact your healthcare provider if you are at high risk for severe illness to discuss possible treatment options.

With COVID-19, the flu and other seasonal illnesses spreading nationwide, take steps to protect yourself and those you love to make this a happy and healthy holiday season for all.

For more information, visit Lung.org/Viruses.

(StatePoint) 
PHOTO SOURCE: (c) nd3000 / iStock via Getty Images Plus


Other articles by HVP News Reporters


  • A gripping graphic novel looks at four infamous days in our history

    The story of prisoners' stand at Attica in 1971

    This graphic novel is a raw and powerful look at the four days of uprising at the Attica State Prison in upstate NY. The illustrations are graphic and at times, horrific. See what we can learn from history read more »
  • Delicious family meals for American Heart Healthy Month

    5 great recipes to keep your family feeling good

    We have 5 great recipes for you to try to celebrate American Heart Healthy Month. read more »
  • Centsible ways to teach kids healthy money habits

    It is imperative to secure your child's financial future

    In school, most kids only learn algebra, calculus, and trigonometry but not how to budget, save or invest. The older we get, the more responsibilities we have that make it challenging to focus on learning financial principles, which is why it is key to start teaching kids healthy money habits at a young age. read more »
  • 5 easy ways to save energy in the kitchen

    Make a few of these simple adjustments

    The kitchen is the heart of the home, it’s also a space where you can waste a lot of energy if you’re not careful. By making a few simple adjustments to your habits in the kitchen, you can easily cut your energy bills and do your part to help the environment. read more »
  • Participate in The Annual Great Backyard Bird Count

    Kids learn about birds and conservation

    The Annual Great Backyard Bird Count (Feb. 16-19) is a great way for people – especially families and kids – to engage with the outdoors right in their own backyard, and the TurfMutt Foundation encourages everyone to participate. read more »
  • How to turn your finances around in the months ahead

    One in three Americans say they are struggling to get by

    Many consumers are feeling financial strain after a challenging economic year in 2022. One in three Americans say they are struggling to get by or are in trouble financially. read more »
  • 4 home improvement ideas

    Tips from the experts

    Whether you’re thinking about a bathroom update, kitchen overhaul or any other type of home improvement project, these tips from the experts at the National Association of the Remodeling Industry and eLivingtoday.com can help you get started. read more »
  • Highly rated diets to support heart health

    Experts take the guess work out of choosing

    Eating healthy is an important goal for people looking to maintain or improve their physical health, particularly as it relates to the heart. With often conflicting information available online and via social media, it may be difficult or downright confusing to find the eating plan for you. read more »
  • 7 Valentine's Day date ideas to break from the norm

    Think outside the box this year

    If you’re feeling pressure to plan the perfect Valentine’s Day date, it may be time to veer away from tradition. While flowers, chocolates and dinner for two is a classic, thinking outside the box can make for just as romantic of an experience. read more »
  • Start your day strong with this strawberry oatmeal smoothie

    Six ingredients and a blender are all you need

    Making a delicious oatmeal smoothie has never been easier. Just six ingredients and a blender are all you need to make the perfect fruit smoothie at home. Deliciously sweet and creamy this strawberry oatmeal smoothie makes for a healthy and filling breakfast or snack. read more »