With fall arriving, winter on its way and COVID-19 still spreading in Wisconsin, people may be worried about what to do when the cold weather sends them indoors.
“Staying safe is all about taking the best care of ourselves and each other,” said Dr. Robert Sedlacek, a family medicine physician with ThedaCare Physicians–Waupaca. “We should recog-nize seasons and weather might impact the spread of COVID-19. Many people have spent the summer months outdoors, minimizing contact with others. That will change as it gets colder and we will be indoors more often.”
Dr. Sedlacek explained we should keep this in mind as winter approaches.
“Research shows people tend to stand about six inches closer to each other in the winter months,” he said. “While a number of factors contribute to coronavirus susceptibility, maintaining at least a six-foot distance indoors should help protect people.”
People should also consider factors such as room size and ventilation when indoors with others. Additionally, research shows activities such as singing or loud conversations can propel particles further, increasing the chance of infection. Mask-wearing continues to be recommended as a way to protect yourself and others from the virus.
At any time of the year, Dr. Sedlacek provided these safe practices to prevent the spread of COVID-19:
Practice social distancing
Avoid large gatherings, especially indoors
Wear a mask in public
Avoid handshakes, hugs and kisses
Wash hands often with soap and water
Clean and disinfect common household surfaces
Avoid people who are sick, stay away from others if you are sick
“It’s important to remember that while there’s been an emphasis on “social distancing”, people shouldn’t isolate themselves from their social network,” Dr. Sedlacek said. “We can be physically distanced from loved ones and friends, but we should make it a priority to continue our relationships in meaningful ways.”
Winter months are often associated with influenza season. As health experts have been studying the spread of coronavirus, there is awareness about the potential for second surge of COVID-19 cases during the winter months. That could coincide with influenza season. The flu is typically active between October and April each year, peaking between December through February.
“This year, more than ever, it will be critical that everyone is vaccinated against the flu,” said Dr. Sedlacek. “With the possibility of Influenza and COVID-19 being active in our communities at the same time, we need everyone to follow social distancing guidelines, wear masks, wash their hands frequently and get a flu shot.”
It is recommended that anyone over the age of six months be vaccinated for the flu. Anyone caring for an infant younger than six months should also be vaccinated against the flu.
“As we prepare for winter months, we should recognize this notion of COVID fatigue,” explained Dr. Sedlacek. “We’re have not reached herd immunity, and it’s unclear when a COVID vaccine would be available.”
Dr. Sedlacek said the actions we take as individuals can help our entire state and country.
“We understand, it’s tough right now,” he said. “We’ve been in this pandemic for seven months and the impact to our daily lives has taken a toll on every single person. It’s critical that we continue take precautions to help prevent the spread of the virus, including wearing a mask, social distancing, staying home when you’re sick and washing our hands.”
If you are feeling overwhelmed, here are some things you can do to combat COVID fatigue:
If listening to the news is difficult, just do it a little and limit it to trusted, responsible sources.
Limit time on social media.
Exercise – even a simple walk can help.
Talking to others. Saying what we feel is good – just make sure it’s the right place and right time.
Mindfulness and gratitude - for now, just take life day by day.
Be compassionate and patient with yourself and others.
“The winter months can be tough at times, even without a pandemic,” said Dr. Sedlacek. “Let’s do everything we can to help ourselves and each other. We can get through this, and before we know it, warmer weather will return.”
