SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (KY3) - The arrival of fall signals the start of respiratory illness season, according to the Springfield-Greene County Health Department.

Flu season officially began Sept. 28, but other illnesses such as COVID-19, RSV, and whooping cough are also circulating in the community. The health department recommends vaccination as the first step to prevent illness. While vaccination may not prevent all infections, it has been shown to reduce illness severity and the risk of hospitalization.

Experts advise that the best course of action when sick is to stay home.

“Staying home when you don’t feel well is a great tool, espiratory etiquette,” said Stephanie Woehl of the Springfield-Greene County Health Department. “So just when you’re coughing, coughing into your elbow instead of

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