As winter sets in, many of us are at risk of falling ill due to various respiratory and stomach viruses such as norovirus, COVID-19, flu, and RSV. However, by understanding the differences between these illnesses and taking simple precautions, you can reduce your risk of infection.
The first step is to know how to identify the symptoms of each illness. Norovirus causes vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and stomach pain for about one to three days, while COVID-19 can cause fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, loss of smell or taste, fatigue, and aches. The flu brings on fever, chills, cough, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, headaches, and feeling tired.
To protect yourself from these illnesses, washing your hands frequently is crucial. This includes using soap and water to scrub away for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom, eating, or preparing food. If you don’t have access to soap and water, hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol can help reduce the spread of germs.
In addition to handwashing, cleaning surfaces regularly is also essential. Use a disinfectant solution, such as chlorine bleach, to wipe down surfaces that may have come into contact with contaminated food or bodily fluids. Washing your clothes and hands again after exposure to vomit or feces can also help prevent the spread of norovirus.
Another key way to protect yourself from winter illnesses is by keeping your hands off your face. Covering your mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, and wearing a mask in crowded areas with an N95 or medical-grade mask can reduce the risk of transmission.
Finally, getting enough rest, staying hydrated, and seeking medical attention if necessary can help you recover from illness more quickly. Resting your immune system is essential to keep it fighting off viruses.
By following these simple steps, you can reduce your risk of falling ill during the winter months and keep yourself and those around you healthy.
Source: https://www.kswo.com/2025/01/11/sick-season-is-here-heres-how-protect-yourself-norovirus-covid-19-flu-rsv