As the colder months roll in, many people are bracing for the return of sniffles, sneezes, and the more serious illnesses that often accompany the season, News4JAX.com reports.
Cold, flu, and COVID-19 cases typically rise during this time of year, and experts warn that these viruses are more transmissible than ever. So, what can you do to protect yourself from becoming ill as you navigate the bustling winter season?
Studies indicate that COVID-19 may be up to twice as contagious as the flu, making it a serious concern for public health. One of the most important ways to reduce your risk is by avoiding high-risk environments, or at least exercising caution when you are in them. Bars and restaurants, for example, are frequent hotspots for transmission. The combination of close contact and maskless conversations makes it easier for respiratory droplets to spread.
Similarly, gyms and fitness centers present their own challenges. The heavy breathing that comes with exercise can release more respiratory particles into the air, increasing the likelihood of exposure. Even outdoor settings, though typically safer, can still pose risks if the area is crowded.
Knowing how long cold, flu, and COVID-19 viruses can survive on surfaces and how they spread may help you take precautionary steps. Cold and flu viruses can live on surfaces for several hours. Once infected, symptoms can take anywhere from 12 hours to three days to appear, and individuals remain contagious for up to 14 days after symptoms develop.
For COVID-19, the virus can survive on surfaces for five to nine days, depending on the conditions. After infection, symptoms can appear anywhere from two to 14 days. According to health experts, you are typically no longer contagious five days after symptoms first appear, although it’s always best to err on the side of caution.
To reduce your risk of catching or spreading illness, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) still recommends taking several protective steps, especially in high-risk settings. Wearing a mask, maintaining physical distance, and practicing good hygiene—such as frequent handwashing—remain key to reducing transmission. In addition, staying up to date on your vaccinations, including the flu shot and COVID-19 boosters, is an important way to protect yourself and those around you.
