And if the answer is no, thats one less anxiety for everybody.

Why does it matter if a friend or family member has been sick lately?

(And you definitely shouldnt throw caution to the wind when it comes to hanging out while sick.)

alt

It might seem like no big deal to people without risk factors, and it may not be.

Most adults who have RSVwill experiencethe symptoms of a mild respiratory virus, for example.

Similarly, influenzais knownto impact one in five adults every year during a normal flu season.

alt

infectious disease specialist at Memorial Hermann Health System in Houston

Fundamentally, people dont want to let down the people around them, says Dr. Yancey.

In fact, its oftenmoredisappointing for them to soldier through a social engagement without regard for getting others sick.

But how do you broach this subject in the most respectful, productive way?

alt

Its Amazing How Its All Connected.

Here are a few tips to try when having these difficult conversations.

Have some background information ready

Explaining why you feel the way you do is an important step.

alt

Its tempting to announce that you oughta have a talk with this person and schedule a sit-down.

A production rarely results in anything positive, because it puts people right on their guard, she explains.

Instead, Cole says, consider making a casual request via a simple script.

alt

infectious disease specialist at Memorial Hermann Health System in Houston

Without that communication, youre not giving people that chance.

And the other people at the gathering have the right to know this.

If you have a fever of 101, thats not a good time to gather with others.

alt

Unfortunately, COVID, influenza, and RSV all present very similarly.

They are all predominantly upper respiratory viruses.

Got it, you’ve been added to our email list.

alt