Preparing for respiratory virus season in coastal and rural communities
As respiratory virus season begins across Oregon, health experts are encouraging people to take preventive steps before flu, COVID-19 and RSV activity increases later this fall and winter.
For many people living in coastal and rural communities, prevention can be especially important.
"When serious illness occurs, families may need to travel long distances for specialized care," said Leona O'Keefe, M.D., medical director of clinical services at Jackson Care Connect. "Preventing illness whenever possible can help avoid additional stress for patients and caregivers."
Health experts recommend that people take early action to protect themselves and others. Vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of severe illness and hospitalization from respiratory viruses.
Additional recommendations include:
- Staying home when sick
- Washing hands regularly
- Covering coughs and sneezes
- Being mindful of people who may face a higher risk of severe illness, including infants, older adults, those who are immunocompromised, and those who are unvaccinated
O'Keefe says prevention is about more than individual health.
"It's also about protecting your family, neighbors and community," she said.
She encourages anyone with questions about vaccines or respiratory illnesses to speak with a trusted health care professional, pharmacist or public health expert. Resources are available through local clinics, pharmacies and community organizations throughout Oregon.
As communities prepare for the coming months, health experts agree that taking simple preventive steps now can help reduce illness and keep families healthier throughout the season.
To learn more about how you can protect yourself from the flu, visit ColPacHealth.org/Flu
For information about RSV and COVID-19 vaccines, visit Columbia Pacific’s Annual Seasonal Vaccines page.
