Health officials are urging extra caution ahead of the winter holidays, with respiratory illnesses spreading widely throughout the region.

In Kitsap County, data indicate influenza (flu) activity has increased rapidly in recent weeks. RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) remains high, but could be leveling off. COVID-19 continues to circulate, with 181 positive tests reported the week of Nov. 28.

“We can all take simple steps to protect ourselves now and enjoy a happy and healthy holiday season,” said Dr. Gib Morrow, health officer for the Kitsap Public Health District. “By staying up to date on vaccination and being diligent about everyday prevention habits like handwashing, you can help our community weather this wave of illness.”

Meanwhile, the state Department of Health and other healthcare providers will soon begin offering omicron variant-targeted bivalent booster doses of COVID-19 vaccines to children ages 6 months and older.

This follows guidance and recommendations from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.