Preparing for the Respiratory Virus Season

Respiratory Virus Season is upon us.  Although respiratory viruses circulate throughout the year, they tend to peak during the winter months. Several viruses can be in circulation, including influenza, coronavirus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), adenovirus, human bocavirus, human metapneumovirus, rhinovirus, and parainfluenza virus. These viruses can cause a range of respiratory infections, from common colds to severe illnesses, depending on the individual affected.

What can you do?

The California Department of Public Health suggests 5 tips to protect yourself and others from winter viruses. The tips include:

1. Get Vaccinated, Boosted (and Treated)
2. Stay Home if You’re Sick, and Test for COVID
3. Wear a Mask
4. Wash Your Hands
5. Cover Your Cough or Sneeze

What is the Lab doing?

Each year, the Lab offers influenza vaccines to individuals both on-site and at the Potter location. Health Services has scheduled the following dates for administering flu vaccines (details to come soon). Furthermore, the Lab is actively pursuing the procurement of COVID vaccines. In the interim, regarding the COVID vaccine, we suggest you explore the option of obtaining it through your healthcare provider or from the California Department of Public Health.

LBL 2023 Flu Clinics