WAYNE COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH DIVISION URGES RESIDENTS TO PROTECT THEMSELVES AGAINST RESPIRATORY VIRUSES THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

WAYNE COUNTY,– Respiratory viruses, including flu, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and COVID-19 are rising across the U.S. Nationally, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports hospitalizations for flu have reached the highest level for this time of year in more than a decade. The combined impact of higher than normal activity of these seasonal illnesses and COVID-19 has the potential to stress our healthcare systems with children’s hospitals especially impacted. As the holidays approach and we gather, Wayne County Public Health Division (WCPHD) strongly urges all residents to follow basic, everyday preventive actions to keep themselves and their loved ones safe.

• Everyone 6 months and older should get vaccinated/boosted against the flu and COVID-19 as soon as possible. Flu and COVID-19 vaccines are the single most effective protection against severe illness and death.

• Stay home when sick, even when testing negative for COVID-19, and avoid being around others--- especially young children and those at risk for severe illness.

• Masks continue to be an effective tool to protect against not only COVID-19 but all respiratory viruses. Consider wearing a high-quality, well-fitted mask for extra protection, especially if you or someone you are with are at increased risk for severe illness; you have symptoms or recently exposed; or in crowded indoor settings.

• Keep a supply of COVID-19 tests at home. Contact a healthcare provider if you test positive for the flu or COVID-19. You may be eligible for treatment options that lower your risk of being hospitalized.

• Wash hands well and often.

• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or upper arm.

WCPHD will continue to monitor community conditions and update recommendations as risk levels change.

For more information on WCPHD vaccine and testing clinics call 866-610-3885 or visit http://www.waynecounty.com/covid19. For additional local vaccine options visit: http://www.vaccines.gov.

Get free at-home tests at: http://www.covid.gov/tests ; http://www.accesscovidtests.org.