OKLAHOMA (KOAM) — The Oklahoma State Department of Health is sharing some tips to help families stay healthy during respiratory season.
The Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) monitors trends of several respiratory viruses, which typically circulate more during the fall and winter months.
Common symptoms of a respiratory virus may include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sore throat
- Headache, muscle or body aches
“The good news is there are actions that individuals can take to help protect themselves from getting sick,” said Kendra Dougherty, director of the OSDH Infectious Disease Prevention and Response service. “Oklahomans are encouraged to evaluate their personal risk and health to decide what prevention measures are right for them.”
Measures individuals can take to prevent the spread and protect themselves from respiratory illnesses like influenza, COVID-19 and RSV include:
- Practice good hand hygiene.
- Cover your cough with a tissue or sleeve.
- Stay home when sick or not feeling well.
- Vaccination is also an option and can help prevent severe illness, hospitalization and death. It can also reduce the length of time you feel ill.