FRESNO, Calif. (FOX26) \u2014 The Fresno County Department of Public Health has announced an increase in respiratory illnesses.<\/p>\n
The illnesses are connected to several viruses circulating in the community, including influenza (flu), COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).<\/p>\n
The FCDPH urges residents to protect themselves and others from respiratory illnesses circulating this winter by taking the following steps:<\/p>\n
Stay up to date on recommended vaccines for flu, COVID-19, and RSV, which help reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death.Stay home if you are sick.Get tested if you have symptoms such as fever, chills, runny nose, cough, sore throat, loss of taste or smell, stomach issues, particularly if you are at higher risk of severe disease.If symptoms are severe, contact your health care provider.Consider wearing a mask in crowded indoor places, especially if you have been sick in the last five days or if you are at higher risk for severe illness.Wash your hands frequently, with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol when soap and warm water are not available.Cover your cough or sneeze with your elbow, upper sleeve, or a disposable tissue, and wash your hands afterward.Ventilate indoor spaces by opening the doors, windows, or using air filtration, when possible, to bring in fresh outdoor air. Portable HEPA filters also help reduce the spread of respiratory viruses.<\/p>\n
The FCDPH encourages residents to know when to utilize the emergency rooms, urgent care centers, and their primary health care provider.<\/p>\n