Welcome

Content courtesy from the California Department of Public Health

Respiratory viruses, like influenza (flu), COVID-19, and RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) circulate year-round in the U.S. and California but are typically more active in fall and winter. This period of time is referred to as “cold and flu season” or “respiratory virus season.” 

People can take simple actions to lower their chances of getting and spreading respiratory viruses. These precautions are especially important for people at higher risk of severe illness.

• Stay up to date on vaccines: Vaccines are the best way to protect against serious illness, including hospitalization and death. You can get flu, COVID-19, and RSV immunizations at the same time. Contact a health care provider or schedule your vaccine appointments at MyTurn.ca.gov. The best time to get immunized is before viruses start to spread widely in the fall and winter.  Vaccines are covered for people with Medicare, Medicaid and most private insurance plans. Those having difficulty obtaining vaccines can contact their local health department for help finding a place to get vaccinated. 
  • Flu and COVID-19 vaccines are available for everyone 6 months and older. 
  • RSV immunizations are available for: 
    • • Infants younger than 8 months
      • High-risk infants/toddlers 8 through 19 months
      • People who are 32-36 weeks pregnant
      • All adults 75 and older
      • Some high-risk adults 60 -74 years old

Learn more about RSV immunizations.

• Stay home if you're sick: Staying home when you’re sick slows the spread of flu, COVID-19, RSV and even the common cold.
• Test and treat: Test for COVID-19 and flu if you have symptoms (like fever, cold, cough, sore throat, or loss of taste or smell). If you test positive and are at higher risk for severe disease, contact your health care provider and ask about treatment. Treatments work best when started right after symptoms begin. Learn more about COVID-19 treatment. Learn more about flu treatments. 
• Consider wearing a mask: Consider wearing a high-quality mask (N95, KN95, KF94) especially if you're sick and in crowded or indoor areas. For more information, visit When and Why to Wear a Mask.
• Wash your hands: Wash hands throughout the day with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. 
• Cover your cough or sneeze: Cough or sneeze into your elbow, arm, or a disposable tissue. Make sure to throw away your tissue, then wash or sanitize your hands. 
• Ventilate indoor spaces: Good ventilation helps reduce the spread of viruses. If it is safe to do so, open doors and windows as much as possible to bring in fresh outdoor air. This can help keep virus particles from building up indoors.