It is flu season.

Flu, or influenza, spreads easily and can make people very sick, especially children.  This year, there is a triple threat of respiratory illnesses – flu, COVID-19 and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) – that are making people very sick. And, of course, there is always the common cold.

This week, the New York State Education Department and the New York State Department of Health are urging residents to take precautions this holiday season and all winter long to prevent flu, COVID-19 and RSV. Those precautions include:

1. Staying up to date on vaccines, including flu and COVID-19.
2. Washing your hands often with soap and hot water for at least 20 seconds.
3. Not coughing or sneezing into your hands; sneeze or cough into your elbow.
4. Staying home when sick or symptomatic.
5. Wearing a well-fitting, high-quality mask when in public indoor spaces.

Click here for the state’s newly released precautions.  

Learn more

Learn more about the flu

CDC – Information About the Flu

The Flu – A Guide For Parents

CDC – Learn more about RSV

CDC – Get more information about COVID-19