Breathe easy this season: Protect yourself from respiratory illnesses

Officials at the Oneida County Health Department want to remind residents that getting the flu shot is important, but protecting yourself from respiratory illnesses goes beyond just the flu. This season, there are other ways to take charge of your health and the well-being of your loved ones, according to a health department press release.

Understanding Respiratory Illnesses

Respiratory illnesses are a group of contagious diseases that affect your lungs and airways. 

These include:

• Influenza (The Flu): A highly contagious illness caused by the flu virus causing mild to severe symptoms like fever, cough, and body aches.

• COVID-19: A respiratory virus that can cause fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Some people may experience no symptoms at all.

• Pneumonia: An infection causing inflammation in the lungs, leading to difficulty breathing and coughing.

• Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV): A common respiratory virus that typically causes mild, coldlike symptoms but can be serious for children under two and the elderly. 

While some illnesses may feel like a common cold, they can be serious, especially for people with weakened immune systems, young children, and older adults.

Prevention is Key

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends several ways to prevent respiratory illnesses:

• Get vaccinated: Yearly flu shots and COVID-19 vaccinations are crucial for protection. Talk to your doctor about other recommended respiratory illness vaccines like pneumonia.

• Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose and mouth.

• Stay Home When Sick: If you're feeling unwell, avoid contact with others to prevent spreading the illness.

• Clean and Disinfect Surfaces: Regularly clean surfaces with disinfectant wipes or sprays, especially frequently touched areas.

Get vaccinated at the Oneida County Health Department (OCHD)

Flu and COVID vaccines are expected to be available at OCHD between mid-September to early October. Call ahead to see if the department is  currently offering vaccines. No appointments will be needed!

Walk in anytime 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. 

Additional vaccine clinics will be held throughout the community; check out the Oneida County Facebook page, Instagram @oneidacountyhealthdept, website (www.oneidacountypublichealth.org), or call 715-369-6111 for details.

For RSV and pneumococcal vaccinations, please call the health department at 715-369-6111 to make an appointment. 

You can also get vaccinated through your primary care provider.