Tips from ‘Virus Hunter’ Dr. Mary Rodgers for a Sick-Free Holiday

The holidays are a time for gathering with family and friends—unfortunately, they can also be prime time for passing around germs. “Virus Hunter” Dr. Mary Rodgers knows that the simplest strategies often have the biggest impact when it comes to staying well. Here are her top recommendations for a healthier, happier holiday:

Practice Basic Hygiene
- Wash Your Hands: It’s a tried-and-true habit that significantly reduces the spread of germs.
- Don’t Share Drinks: As tempting as it might be to clink glasses, sipping from someone else’s cup can spread viruses and bacteria in seconds.
- Avoid Known Illness: If you know someone is under the weather, keep a safe distance until they’re recovered.
Embrace Rapid Testing
Sometimes even with the best precautions, that telltale sneeze or cough sneaks up on you. Rather than guessing the cause—flu, strep, COVID, or RSV—a rapid test provides quick clarity. Abbott offers at-home and on-site tests (ID NOW) that can detect multiple infections:
- At-Home Option: Tests like BinaxNOW for COVID.
- On-Site Option: ID NOW tests available at select pharmacies, urgent care centers, and doctors’ offices can screen for COVID, flu, strep, and RSV in just 15 minutes.
Why It Matters: Getting a fast, accurate diagnosis means you can take action immediately—whether that’s starting medication, staying home from work or school, or simply resting to recover.
Know When to Seek Medical Guidance
If symptoms appear, reach out to your healthcare provider right away. A quick test result can help you and your doctor decide on the next best step—whether that’s an in-person appointment, medication, or other treatments. Rapid answers can prevent complications, helping you bounce back faster.
Focus on Being Present
Ultimately, it’s about safeguarding your time with loved ones and making the most of the holiday season. By staying proactive—practicing good hygiene and testing when needed—you’ll better ensure that you won’t miss out on family festivities, friendly catch-ups, or any of the holiday fun.