Navigating the upcoming sick season: Tips to stay healthy and identify common illnesses

As the weather cools down and the risk of respiratory viruses increases, experts recommend practicing safety measures such as frequent handwashing, sanitizing high-touch areas, and staying home when sick. Dr. Kristin Englund, an infectious disease specialist, advises getting vaccinated for each virus if eligible, including the new COVID-19 vaccine designed for the current variant. Both Moderna and Pfizer offer new versions of the vaccine, and it is permissible to mix and match them.