Dr. Mandy Cohen, who is both the director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and a mom, is aware of the skepticism that some people have toward the CDC and public health organizations in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, with Thanksgiving just around the corner and millions of individuals preparing for holiday travel, Cohen is aiming to alleviate some of the doubt surrounding the agency’s recommendations by sharing how she keeps her own family safe during this respiratory-virus season.
“I want to be transparent and share what I do for my own family,” Cohen shared. She, along with her husband and two young daughters (ages 9 and 11), as well as her parents, have all received updated COVID and flu vaccines this season. “I wouldn’t recommend something for the American people that I wouldn’t recommend for my own family,” Cohen added, hoping this might help people see her as more than just the CDC director and understand the reasoning behind her recommendations.
Here are some of the changes and precautions suggested by Cohen for this holiday season:
Before the Holidays:
1. Get vaccinated: Everyone ages 6 months and older should get the updated COVID vaccine and the flu shot, along with an RSV vaccine, especially for individuals over 60.
2. Stay home if you’re sick: Taking time to recover and preventing illness from spreading to others ahead of the holidays is key.
3. Get tested: Know what you have so that you can seek treatment if necessary. Free rapid COVID tests are available for order in the U.S.
While Traveling and Gathering:
1. Wash your hands: Consistently maintain proper hand hygiene, especially when handling food.
2. Improve ventilation: Increase airflow indoors by opening windows and doors to reduce airborne contaminants.
3. Wear a mask: Masks are an effective tool in protecting against viruses, especially in crowded places.
For vaccinated individuals and those who have had COVID:
Cohen strongly advocates for getting the updated shot due to the virus mutations, waning of protection over time, and the risk of long COVID.
For children and during cold and flu season:
In addition to vaccination, ensuring that kids get enough sleep, a healthy diet, and are in safe environments can help keep them healthy. It’s also important to stay in touch with a pediatrician if a child falls ill.
For those interested in the RSV vaccine:
While supply limitations have made it challenging to obtain the RSV vaccine for high-risk groups, Cohen suggests staying up-to-date with information and seeking available options in consultation with healthcare providers.
