During the autumn and winter months, respiratory infections typically increase. The risk of becoming severely ill and requiring hospitalization from flu or COVID-19 is greater for older individuals. People with chronic conditions such as heart, lung, or liver problems, diabetes, or immune disorders are also more susceptible to severe illness.
Sadly, people still die from flu and COVID-19 each year. Vaccination is therefore crucial. A flu vaccination reduces the risk of infection, and both flu and COVID-19 vaccines lessen the chance of severe illness if infected. Vaccines are updated annually to match prevalent virus strains, but their effectiveness gradually wanes over several months, making annual vaccination recommended.
Complementary to vaccination, adopting good hygiene practices helps prevent transmission. Regular hand washing with soap and water, ventilating indoor spaces with many people, and coughing or sneezing into a tissue or elbow are key preventive measures. Staying home when sick is advised; wearing a face mask may be considered when public transport or crowded places are unavoidable.
