Louisville doctor offers 3 steps to avoid the spread of flu, RSV and COVID

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- The flu, RSV and COVID-19 are the three main illnesses passing through households in Kentuckiana this holiday season.

And as the weather gets colder, one Louisville doctor said more people are gathering with folks indoors.

Dr. Mark Burns, an associate professor of medicine in the Division of Infectious Diseases at the University of Louisville, said fewer people are getting vaccinated and more people are traveling.

UOFL HEALTH DOCTOR — UofL Health Associate professor of medicine in the Division of Infectious Diseases at the University of Louisville, Doctor Mark Burns, spoke with WDRB News about the Flu, RSV, and COVID-19. (WDRB Image) Dec. 28, 2023

So your chances of catching something are higher than normal.

Burns said all three respiratory illnesses can be avoided by taking three steps. He suggested you get vaccinated, wear a high-quality mask in public and wash your hands even after social distancing.

But, if you are not feeling well, Burns said you need to get tested and then stay at home to prevent the spread.

"These symptoms are very similar between all three of these respiratory illnesses as far as the COVID-19 and influenza," he said. "So it's best to get tested so you can make sure that you receive the appropriate treatment."

Burns said doctors are used to seeing spikes in respiratory illnesses this time of the year but this year is better than it has been in the recent past.

"I stress testing and getting the information on what you have, because, when it comes to COVID and influenza, there are treatments available antivirals, available for them, if they're given within the correct timeframe," he said.

Burns also said the best protection that a person can have preventing against serious illness and even death is to get vaccinated.

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