Viruses, holidays, and vaccines

By Madeline S. Wilson, MD, FACP | Tuesday, November 14, 2023

Respiratory virus update

The past six weeks have been relatively quiet on the respiratory illness front after a wave of COVID in early September, but we’re early in the season.

  • We’ve seen a slight increase in COVID cases on campus over the past week.
  • COVID wastewater levels and hospitalizations have plateaued, and no new variants are raising particular concerns.  
  • Flu levels in CT are still considered “minimal” but are creeping up in southern states.

RSV infections are low in CT but increasing, especially in children aged 0-4 years.

Respiratory Virus Levels 1028 to 1105

Respiratory Virus Activity Levels (cdc.gov)

Health guidance for the holidays

There is much to look forward to as we approach the holiday season. But, along with friends, family, and food, we can count on some viruses being shared. On campus, a bump in COVID cases has inevitably followed breaks and, depending on where you have traveled, there may be flu in the mix as well. Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself and others:

Get vaccinated now!

It is NOT too late to benefit from a flu or COVID vaccine. In fact, now is a perfect time to get vaccinated before an expected winter increase in cases. Earlier supply chain problems have largely resolved, making vaccines easier to obtain.

  • Flu and COVID vaccines are available for free for faculty, staff, students, and Yale Health members through the Yale Vaccine Program. Those who schedule a COVID vaccine at Yale Health may also get their flu vaccine immediately following on our lower level. We have appointments open for this week! Use our Flu COVID Tool to schedule now.
  • Yale faculty, staff, and students, including Yale Health members, also have the option of seeking a COVID vaccine through a local pharmacy. Consult with your insurance provider.
  • Employees with Aetna insurance are eligible for vaccination through the Yale Vaccine Program or through the Aetna network.

Do what you can to avoid being laid up during or after the holiday!

  • Pick up a couple of free rapid COVID tests at one of our distribution sites on campus to take home with you.
  • Improve ventilation in crowded gatherings by opening the windows.
  • Have masks on hand in case you, or someone you are in close proximity with, develop symptoms.
  • Consider masking if you are traveling to or from campus by train or plane.
  • Remember, if you do contract either COVID or flu and are at increased risk of severe disease, treatments are available and should be started ASAP after a diagnosis.

In all the hustle and bustle of travel, gatherings, and obligations, it’s also important to take care of yourself. Do your best to catch up on sleep and take time to exercise and get outdoors!

Be well,

Madeline S. Wilson, MD, FACP
Chief Campus Health Officer