From NewsCenter article published on 9/30/2025
Now that fall has arrived, flu season is here and the number of people getting sick with a respiratory illness is expected to increase. Although germs will be prevalent for the next few months, there are still numerous ways to stay healthy and protect yourself from flu, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
Respiratory Illness Dashboard
Visit for most up-to-date data on respiratory illnesses in the Fairfax Health District. We use data from emergency departments and urgent care centers to track how many people are visiting these providers. These data help us see how respiratory illnesses affect our community over time.
Flu
Here are five simple strategies you can use to protect yourself and those around you from flu. Most of these suggestions also apply to avoiding other respiratory illnesses as well.
1. Get your annual flu shot
To find where you can receive a flu vaccine, visit VDH's Vaccine Provider Locator.
2. Wash your hands often
Washing your hands regularly is one of the best and simplest ways to prevent yourself from getting sick. Wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. If no soap or water is available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
3. Cover your coughs and sneezes
Coughing and sneezing can spread germs to others. Always cover coughs and sneezes with your elbow or a tissue, not with your hands. Make sure to throw out tissues and wash your hands immediately after.
4. Clean surfaces regularly and avoid touching your face
When you touch your eyes, nose and mouth, germs on your hands can enter your body and make you sick. Clean frequently touched surfaces such as countertops, handrails and doorknobs regularly.
5. Stay home when sick
Staying home when sick is important in preventing illness from spreading to others. Stay home and away from others until at least 24 hours after both you and your symptoms are better.
COVID-19
COVID-19 vaccines significantly lowers the risk of getting sick, being hospitalized or dying from the virus.
On Sept. 10, Virginia State Health Commissioner Karen Shelton, MD, signed a new statewide standing order for pharmacies in Virginia to facilitate accessibility for pharmacists to administer the 2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccine. The standing order allows pharmacists to administer the vaccine to Virginians 65 years of age and older and those between the ages of 18 and 64 with at least one underlying medical condition without a prescription. On Sept. 19, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) made recommendations regarding the use of the 2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccination. Once those recommendations are finalized, and more information is available, it will be posted on COVID-19 webpage.
The Health Department clinics anticipate a limited vaccine supply and will only provide COVID-19 vaccine to individuals who are uninsured or covered by Medicaid.
RSV
RSV is a common respiratory virus that affects the lungs and breathing passages. It usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms and is very contagious.
The CDC has updated its recommendation for the use of RSV vaccines in people ages 50 and older. It now recommends everyone ages 75 and older and people ages 50-74 who are at increased risk of severe RSV get the vaccine.
Read the full article at the NewsCenter.