How can I prevent getting the flu or other respiratory illnesses like a cold or COVID-19

5 Ways to Protect Yourself From the Flu and Other Respiratory Illnesses

It’s more important than ever to take steps to reduce your risk for respiratory illnesses like the flu, colds and COVID-19.

Every year, as cold and flu season gets underway, people look for ways to avoid getting sick. This year, the COVID-19 pandemic has made it even more crucial.

“More than ever, it’s important that we use all possible measures to prevent illness that can impair our immune system during this respiratory pandemic,” urges Carolyn Kaloostian, MD, MPH, a family medicine physician at Keck Medicine of USC and a clinical associate professor of family medicine at the Keck School of Medicine of USC.

These strategies can help protect you.