FALL, 2021
FRESH AIR A Newsletter for Breathe PA’s Supporters and Friends
Take steps to protect yourself now: •G et your flu vaccine. • If you haven’t already received your coronavirus vaccine, now is the time. Vaccines are available at most major pharmacies. Visit www.vaccines.gov to find one near you. •T he CDC currently recommends additional vaccine doses or booster shots for people with moderately to
STAY HEALTHY THIS FALL
severely compromised immune systems because they are especially vulnerable to COVID-19. This includes
Colder weather is right around the corner, and so is an expected uptick in infectious respiratory diseases. People spending more time indoors contributes to the spread. Rhinoviruses, culprits of the common cold, usually peak in early fall, while influenza (flu), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and human coronaviruses typically peak in the winter.
people who have: oB een receiving active cancer treatment for tumors or cancers of the blood oR eceived an organ transplant and are taking medicine to suppress the immune system oR eceived a stem cell transplant within the last
Remember that:
2 years or are taking medicine to suppress the
• If you are sick, stay home. Contact your doctor about
immune system
persistent or worsening symptoms. Seek immediate
o Moderate or severe primary immunodeficiency
care for symptoms that could be signs of an emergen-
(such as DiGeorge syndrome, Wiskott-Aldrich
cy, such as trouble breathing or chest pain.
syndrome)
• Wearing a mask in public indoor spaces will help
o Advanced or untreated HIV infection
reduce the spread of all viruses, including COVID-19. If
o Active treatment with high-dose corticosteroids
you are infected with the coronavirus and do not know
or other drugs that may suppress your immune
it, a mask may help keep your respiratory droplets and
response
particles from infecting others.
Booster guidance is continuously changing. Talk
• Handwashing remains as important as ever. Wash your
to your doctor about your medical condition to
hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or
determine whether a booster shot is appropriate
use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
for you at this time.
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