Have Yourself a Healthy, Happy Holiday

COVID, flu and human respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, are spreading and causing hospitalizations around the country this winter. Washington DC VA Medical Center wants you and your loved ones to stay safe from infectious diseases this holiday season by following a few simple tips.

Wash Your Hands

Using warm water and soap, scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Play close attention to the areas under fingernails, backs of hands and between your fingers. Dry your hands with a clean towel.

Get Vaccinated

Staying up to date on all vaccines can protect you and your loved ones from viruses like COVID and influenza.

COVID: The Center for Disease Control and Prevention, or the CDC, released two new studies on December 16, 2022, that show the new bivalent COVID booster shot to be highly effective at reducing the risk of hospitalization caused by COVID. This bivalent COVID booster was recommended by the CDC in September to protect against both broad and omicron-specific strains of COVID.  Veterans can receive their COVID vaccine and booster shot for free at the Washington DC VA Medical Center. To learn how, visit: Updated COVID-19 Booster Available At DC VA Medical Center | VA Washington DC Health Care | Veterans Affairs

Flu: According to the CDC, approximately 120,000 people have been hospitalized with the flu in the past few months. The flu virus can lead to pneumonia and increased risk of heart attack. Nine out of 10 hospitalized patients had underlying conditions. Children under the age of five, people over the age of 65, immunocompromised people and those who are pregnant are most at risk of serious illness from the flu. Protect your loved ones this holiday season by getting your flu vaccine. Veterans can receive a free flu vaccine at the Washington DC VA Medical Center, local VA community-based outpatient clinics or from a community provider in the VA network. Find a location near you here: Flu Shots Available At Washington DC VA Medical Center | VA Washington DC Health Care | Veterans Affairs

Test for COVID

Before gatherings or celebrations, it can be useful to take an at-home COVID test to ensure you are not carrying the virus without symptoms. Every U.S. household is eligible to order four free, at-home COVID tests. Get you’re here: COVID.gov/tests - Free at-home COVID-19 tests

Mask Up

Although most mask mandates have been lifted, consider masking when gathering in large groups to protect yourself and others. If you know you have an important event, like a wedding or Christmas party, to attend soon, wearing a mask while out in public can help to reduce your risk of catching any infections that you could carry to those you gather with.

Gather Outside When Possible

Gathering outside greatly limits the risk of spreading infectious diseases. Viruses like COVID and flu do not build up in the air as much as they do inside. If you live somewhere where the weather is warmer, or have access to outdoor heaters, consider gathering outside when possible.  

If You’re Sick, Stay Home

After isolating from loved ones during the height of the COVID pandemic, it can be especially difficult to skip family gatherings this holiday season. But if you are feeling under the weather, consider the risk of exposing your friends and family to the germs you may be carrying. If you absolutely must attend a celebration, avoid hugging, touching or kissing and strive to keep a safe distance of six feet whenever possible. Wearing a mask is also advised.

 

Health care professionals at the Washington DC VA Medical Center want to remind you that viruses like COVID, flu and RSV are still a threat in our community. Get vaccinated, follow the health safety tips above and stay up to date on the latest VA health care news here: VA Washington DC Health Care | Veterans Affairs

Happy Holidays from the Washington DC VA Medical Center Team!