The Thought Counts

In the coming weeks and months, many of us will travel, gather with people, visit friends and relatives, and go out to shop even more. COVID-19 is still among us, as are influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Before you travel, gather, visit, and shop, please take a moment to think about what you can do to prepare to protect yourself and the people around you.

What should I do if I’m going to travel?

• See the CDC recommendations on travel. If you’re traveling in the U.S., view this state-by-state guide to COVID-19 infection levels, or one at the county level.
• Get a flu shot as soon as possible. Available at clinics and pharmacies statewide, and in the Twin Cities through Boynton Health.
• Ensure your COVID-19 vaccines are current, including the new bivalent booster. Vaccines are available at clinics and pharmacies statewide, and in the Twin Cities through Boynton Health.
• Wash your hands thoroughly or use hand sanitizer, and avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• If you are at high risk of complications, wear a high-quality, well-fitted mask indoors around others.

What should I do if I feel sick?

• Stay home.
• Get tested. Tests and treatments are available for COVID-19, flu, and RSV at clinics and hospitals. For COVID-19 testing in the Twin Cities through Boynton Health, see MTest.
• If positive, follow CDC isolation guidelines and see your healthcare provider for treatment.
• Wear a high-quality, well-fitted mask indoors around others.

How do I know whether I have (or someone else has) COVID-19, the flu, RSV, or just a cold?

• These are all respiratory infections caused by viruses and sometimes difficult to tell apart. Tests are available to determine the type of virus.
• Cold (rhinovirus) symptoms
• Flu (influenza) symptoms (Not viral gastroenteritis or “stomach flu.”)
• RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) symptoms and how it spreads. Some children and older adults are at high risk of serious complications.
• COVID-19 symptoms
• CDC guide comparing cold vs. flu
• Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles guide comparing these four viruses

Anything else I should know?

• Last week Johns Hopkins University published an article outlining the complexities of COVID-19 variants.
• Past CPHO messages with information and links are available for your reference.