As fall temperatures drop, the risk of respiratory illnesses such as the common cold, flu, allergies, RSV, and COVID increases in workplaces and schools. Dr. Mike Ren, assistant professor of family and community medicine at Baylor College of Medicine, provided guidance on how to reduce the likelihood of infection during this season.
Dr. Ren recommends supporting the immune system with supplements like vitamin C, zinc, or B12. He also stresses the importance of adequate rest and sleep, along with staying current on vaccinations. “Vaccines for flu, COVID and RSV can certainly get your immune system primed for these illnesses and can prevent them from seriously affecting your health,” he said.
Hand hygiene is another key prevention strategy. Dr. Ren advises washing hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water. “Even if your hands are clean, get out of the habit of rubbing your nose or touching your face. Sanitize your hands before you eat or pick up something to drink,” he added.
For those traveling or spending time in public spaces, mask-wearing is recommended to reduce exposure to respiratory droplets that may carry viruses or bacteria. “A lot of these illnesses, viral or bacterial, are transmitted through respiratory droplets,” said Dr. Ren. “Someone can cough near you, or their saliva can get on a door handle they touch. This is why washing and sanitizing your hands is important. If you are on a plane, a person next to you could be breathing out their germs, and a mask can certainly help.”
Symptoms for many fall respiratory illnesses often begin similarly—with runny nose, cough or fever—and most healthy individuals recover within a week. However, those who are immunocompromised may experience more severe illness that could require hospitalization.
Dr. Ren urges anyone who becomes ill to consult their physician and stay home from work or school to avoid spreading infection: “You aren’t doing yourself a favor by going to work or school sick. You’re actually doing the general public a disservice. You’re potentially getting other people sick,” he said.
