Follow these tips to protect yourself and everyone around you especially with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic this fall:

1. Get vaccinated

   The vaccine helps our immune system. The COVID-19 vaccine will also protect others from getting infected in case you are a carrier of the virus. Go to ProtectMB to find the nearest immunization site to get your vaccine (or booster).

   Also consider getting the flu shot. It’s possible to get the flu and COVID-19 at the same time. Visit your doctor or go to the local public health office, nursing station, pharmacy, ACCESS Centre, or immunization clinic to know what will work best for you. Read the MHSAL page on Seasonal Flu for more information about the flu vaccine.

2. Stay safe and protect yourself

   Wear a mask to make sure you don’t catch the virus. You should do this especially if you are immunocompromised or living with someone who is high-risk. The photo below shows you the types of masks that can protect you:
   

   You can also see it here: COVID-19 mask use: Types of masks and respirators

   Another way to protect yourself is to have a good supply of fresh air:

   • Turn on ceiling fans to help air circulate (make sure they’re pulling air upwards)
   • Get a HEPA filter especially if you are living with high-risk individuals
   • Change your furnace filters
   • Turn-on exhaust fans in bathrooms and your stovetop when you have house guests
   • Open windows and screen doors to help fresh air circulate

   Public health orders and restrictions change often. For your safety, know the latest from the RestartMB Pandemic Response System page.

3. Strengthen your immunity

   Eat right, exercise and get enough sleep to prevent any kind of sickness. Do this all year long, not only during the flu season. Eat foods rich with vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc and selenium. Watch the video below to learn more about foods that boost your immunity:

   
   5 foods to keep your immune system strong, CBC

4. Cough and sneeze into your elbow

   Cough and sneeze into your elbow or cover your nose and mouth with a tissue. Throw away used tissues immediately into the trash bin.

5. Stay at home

   Take the online self-assessment or take a rapid antigen test if you have COVID-19 symptoms. You can get the test kits for free. Go to this map to know where you can get one. Read How to use the rapid antigen test for instructions.

   You can also call the Health Links-Info Santé line at 204-788-8200. They will tell you what to do and where to go if you need to get tested. The most important thing to do is to stay home, rest and take your medicines.

   Call 911 if you cannot breathe or if you have other severe symptoms.

 
Article updated September 14, 2022.
 
Sources: Colliers- protecting yourself and others against respiratory illness (pdf); Seasonal flu, Manitoba Health, Seniors and Active Living; and The benefits of hand washing, Canada.ca.