MACON, Ga. — As the weather gets colder many people will be more susceptible to respiratory illnesses like the flu, COVID-19 and RSV.
One Macon grandmother knows firsthand how hard battling these illnesses can be.
"I had three grandchildren that died due to RSV. All three of them," Teresa Spencer said.
Spencer's grandchildren did not have their 1st birthday before they passed.
"One was 6 months, one was 4 months another was 3 weeks," she said.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports 58,000 to 80,000 RSV hospitalizations in kids younger than 5-years-old.
"There are specific viruses that have a higher prevalence during this time period like the flu and RSV," resident physician at Piedmont Macon Omar Holayel said.
Holayel says it's better to be safe than sorry when it comes to family gatherings.
"If you feel like you're sick it doesn't hurt to wear a mask. You can prevent the spread significantly by doing that. Also, maintaining your distance from some people and washing your hands," she said.
The CDC says 2023 is the first fall and winter virus season where vaccines are available for the three major respiratory viruses: COVID-19, RSV and the flu.
If you're flying this holiday season, consider wearing a mask.
"It would probably be in your best interest to wear a mask, while you're on an airplane. You're in a small close space with hundreds you've never met before," Holayel said.
Updated Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines became available in September. If you are insured, your flu vaccine could be free.
The CDC recommends adults 60 and up have the option of getting the RSV vaccine.