4 ways to protect yourself from flu, RSV and COVID-19

As students return to school and the weather cools, medical experts are closely monitoring the circulation of respiratory viruses, including the flu, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and COVID-19. These viruses can be life threatening and capable of overwhelming hospitals. To reduce the risk of illness and stay healthy during this time, you can take these steps to protect yourself and those around you.

1. Get vaccinated. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends everyone ages 6 months or older receive an annual flu vaccination and an updated COVID-19 booster.  This is important because flu and COVID-19 viruses are constantly changing, and the vaccines are updated to keep up with new strains that are circulating. RSV vaccinations are also recommended for adults ages 75 and older, as well as those ages 60-74 who are at increased risk of severe RSV. You can get more than one vaccination at the same appointment.
   
   There are two options for protecting babies from RSV: a maternal vaccine given between 32 and 36 weeks of pregnancy and an antibody against RSV given to babies younger than 8 months of age. The CDC recommends specific timing for receiving these immunizations to maximize protection during RSV season, so talk with your doctor to see if this is right for you and your baby."
    
2. Take everyday actions to prevent the spread of disease. Cover your coughs and sneezes, stay away from people who are sick, stay home if you’re sick, wash your hands often, and improve air circulation in your home and workplace. The CDC also recommends wearing a mask in public if you have symptoms of respiratory illness, if you’re immunocompromised or at increased risk of severe disease. For more guidance on reducing your risk of common respiratory viruses, the CDC provides an easy-to-read snapshot.
    
3. Know what treatment is available if you’re at risk of severe illness due to age, chronic medical conditions or being immunocompromised. Prescription antiviral medications are available for the treatment of flu, RSV and COVID-19 in certain individuals. These treatments are especially important for people who are at higher risk of complications from respiratory illnesses. If you start to feel sick, talk with your health care provider so they can test and, if appropriate, start treatment in the first few days of illness when antiviral medications work the best.
    
4. Know your options before you need care. Sign in at regence.com or through the Regence app and use the Find care tool to locate care options near you. It’s also helpful to have a primary care provider (PCP) to contact when you or a loved one is sick. If you don’t have one, we can help you find one.

Regence members have alternatives to emergency rooms (ER) that many find faster, more convenient and less expensive:

• Virtual care – your regular doctor may be able to advise you by phone or over the computer in the comfort of your home. Many health plans offer access to virtual providers such as Doctor on Demand or MDLIVE.
• At-home care – some Regence plans offer access to DispatchHealth for care that comes to you. DispatchHealth is available in select locations.
• Urgent care clinics – many urgent care clinics are conveniently located and more accessible than ERs.

We’re here to help

Flu, RSV and COVID-19 vaccinations are covered with no out-of-pocket cost for most Regence members. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about getting vaccinated. If you get sick and need care, call your personal doctor Virtual care or an urgent care clinic may be convenient options to consider before heading to the ER. ERs are by far the most expensive option and they’re often extremely busy so wait times will be long.

Visit regence.com or use the Regence app for help finding the right care option or call us at the number on the back of your member ID card. If you’re experiencing a life-threatening emergency, go to the ER immediately. Doctors there are specially trained to treat critical health needs.