How To Protect Yourself From Winter Viruses

Why Winter Viruses Can Hit Older Adults Harder

Winter viruses are common respiratory illnesses, such as the flu, COVID-19, and RSV, that spread more easily during the winter months and can pose a higher risk for older adults. Colder weather often means more time spent indoors, which increases exposure, especially for those with underlying health conditions or weakened immune systems. While these viruses can circulate year-round, there are simple, practical steps families can take to reduce risk and protect loved ones at home. The guidance below, shared by California public health leaders, outlines everyday actions that help older adults stay healthier, safer, and more confident throughout the winter virus season.

Older adults, especially those with weakened immune systems, are at greater risk for getting very sick from respiratory viruses like flu, COVID-19, and RSV, which circulate year-round. It’s important to take steps to reduce that risk! “As a parent and a pediatrician, I ensure my family gets flu vaccine every year because I am confident the flu vaccine is safe and can help prevent serious illness like pneumonia and hospitalization,” says Dr. Erica Pan, California Department of Public Health Director and State Public Health Officer.

• Stay up to date on vaccines: Vaccines are the best way to protect against serious illness, including hospitalization and death. Everyone 65 and older, and people with weakened immune systems, should receive a second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine six months after their first dose to stay protected from severe illness.
• 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.
• 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, read 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.

Where Can You Get Shots?

Check with your doctor or pharmacy or visit MyTurn.ca.gov for vaccines at no cost to most people with private or public insurance. If you don’t have insurance, pharmacies and clinics participating in the California Bridge Access Program offer the shots for free. Visit vaccines.gov to find a location near you. Ventilation is also a powerful tool to help reduce the spread of viruses. CDPH recommends:

• Ventilating indoor spaces: 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.
• Maintaining your HVAC system: Perform all routine maintenance on your system and replace air filters when recommended.
• Using portable air cleaning devices: Devices that circulate the air through high quality HEPA filters remove infectious particles by filtering them out of the air.

These simple tips can help keep you and your family healthy.

Winter viruses can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to protect someone you love. The good news is that small, intentional steps, like staying up to date on vaccines, paying attention to symptoms, and improving air quality at home, can go a long way. By staying informed and taking these everyday steps, families or caregivers can help their loved ones stay healthier, more comfortable, and confident at home throughout the winter season.

This resource includes publicly available content republished from the California Department of Aging resource: Tips to Avoid Respiratory Viruses