​Bah HumBUG - COVID, Flu and RSV are the Gifts No One Wants this Holiday Season

COVID-19 isn't the only concern this year. In Mecklenburg County and statewide, flu and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) cases are also rising. As we gear up for holiday celebrations, help friends and family stay safe by getting vaccinated, being transparent about how you're feeling and staying home if you're sick.   

"As you're getting back into daily routines after gathering together for the Thanksgiving holiday, help keep friends, kids, coworkers and other acquaintances safe and healthy by staying home if you feel sick," said Dr. Raynard Washington, Public Health Director. "This simple act can help ensure you're able to safely gather again for celebrations throughout the holiday season."  

Not too late to get vaccinated 

Vaccination is the best way to prevent infection with the flu. It can also help make illness milder for those who do get the flu, making it especially important for those at high risk of severe illness, such as people over 65 years old, children younger than 5, pregnant women and those with certain medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease and obesity. Everyone 6 months and older is eligible for the vaccine.   

Mecklenburg County Public Health is offering the flu vaccine at both clinic locations. Call 704-336-6500 to make an appointment or walk in during business hours: 

Northwest Health Department: 2845 Beatties Ford Road 
Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri: 8:30 - 11:30 a.m.; 1 - 4:30 p.m.
Wed: 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.; 3 - 6:30 p.m. 

Southeast Health Department: 249 Billingsley Road 
Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri: 8:30 - 11:30 a.m.; 1 - 4:30 p.m.
Wed: 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.; 3 - 6:30 p.m. 

Play it safe during the holidays 

The same safety precautions that have helped us slow the spread of COVID-19 also protect us from flu and RSV: 

  • Stay home from work or school when sick to avoid spreading infection to others. 

  • Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue and then trash the tissue right away. 

  • Layer protection with the 3Ws: 

  • Wear a face covering over your nose and mouth

  • Wait 6 feet apart from other people

  • Wash your hands often