HONOLULU (KHON2) -- There's nothing like quality time with loved ones during the holidays, when many families usually plan to visit each other, but doctors are remembering some of the best practices they've learned during the pandemic.
Doctors have noticed an increase in flu and RSV cases as COVID-19 continues to spread. Niu Health and Doctor Waikiki Dr. Tony Trpkowski says he's noticed that more people are lax when it comes to disease prevention.
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"I've noticed that people go to parties or other events or travel when they're sick because they have plans," says Dr. Trpkowski. "And then when they get sick, whether it's the flu, COVID, RSV or whatever, they have to be respectful and careful not to infect their loved ones."
Staying home when you're not feeling well remains one of the best ways to prevent the spread of disease. However, sometimes people show no symptoms or start feeling unwell after attending a meeting. If someone catches COVID at a holiday party, the CDC recommends that close contacts wear a mask and be tested for COVID within five days of exposure.
Dr. Trpkowski said, "If you have a COVID test at home, get a COVID test as it's available. If you don't have one yet, if your COVID test is negative, if you still don't know what to do, don't continue, see your doctor."
The CDC continues to recommend five days of isolation for those who test positive for COVID, as well as an additional five days of wearing a mask when outdoors.
A doctor for other respiratory diseases like RSV. Trkowski said there is no cure, but doctors can monitor symptoms and screen for other conditions.
When it comes to the flu, there are antiviral medications that doctors can prescribe if someone knows they have been exposed to the flu virus.
"We have tried and tested ways to keep people away from the flu using prophylaxis like Tamiflu and Xofluza," said Dr. said Trpkowski.
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Proper hand washing and wearing a mask in crowded places can reduce your chances of getting respiratory illnesses this holiday season.