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The Thought Counts

Author
Jakub Tolar, MD, PhD, Campus Public Health Officer
November 16, 2022

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?

Anything else I should know?

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