Preventing Respiratory Viruses (COVID-19, Flu and RSV)

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Page last updated 12/11/2024.

Use strategies and tools to lower your chances of catching or spreading a respiratory virus and lower your likelihood of getting very sick if you do catch one.

On this page:

Core Prevention Strategies
Additional Prevention Strategies
Educational Materials

Core Prevention Strategies

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all people, ages 6 months and older, stay up-to-date on COVID-19 vaccines and receive a flu vaccine.
If you are 60 years and older, talk to your healthcare provider to see if the RSV vaccination is right for you. The CDC also recommends nirsevimbad, a monoclonal antibody product, for infants younger than 8 months who are born during - or entering - their first RSV season.

Handwashing with soap removes most germs, including respiratory viruses, from your hands. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

Viral particles in the air spread between people more readily indoors than outdoors. Taking steps for cleaner air, such as opening windows or using air filters, can reduce the amount of virus you are exposed to.

Additional Prevention Strategies

Masks can help reduce the amount of germs you breathe in.
You can also use masks to help protect others if you have a respiratory virus.

Stay away from others who are sick, if possible.

COVID-19 tests are widely available over-the-counter and from community testing sites.
Your healthcare provider can help advise you on getting test for flu, RSV, or other respiratory viruses.