LOGAN – Intermountain Health has issued guidelines to help Utahns stay well-informed and healthy this fall: what you need to know about the flu, RSV and COVID-19 to keep you healthy.
According to the CDC respiratory illnesses are currently causing fewer healthcare visits. Also, both flu and RSV are at low levels right now across the country. And while COVID-19 activity is still elevated nationally, many areas are seeing a decline.
Recent wastewater monitoring shows COVID-19 levels are high, but flu and RSV levels are minimal.
Intermountain continues to emphasize the importance of getting a flu shot, primarily because the flu vaccine is your best defense against the flu virus. Flu season runs from October to May and peaks between December and February. Flu shots are available at Intermountain flu clinics, primary care clinics, pharmacies and health departments.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) may not be as well-known but it can pose a substantial risk to infants and young children. This virus thrives in coldest weather, making it more prevalent in the fall and winter months.
COVID-19 is still around and it is important to recognize its symptoms, which include fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing and fatigue.