How to prepare for a COVID-19 winter

Testing is becoming more and more readily available, and often for free. Those who have any of the common symptoms shouldn’t wait.

Even those who were tested recently might have subsequently been in contact with someone who was asymptomatic but still shedding the virus. Follow precautions, from mask-wearing to social-distancing, in order to protect those around you.

Masks are ever-present these days: Even restaurants and mini marts are stocking them to encourage customers to mask up. But not all masks are created equal when it comes to preventing COVID-19, so pay attention to current research.

Because the flu and COVID-19 share some symptoms, getting a flu shot is an important part of surviving the winter without unnecessary aches, pains, fevers, and sniffles, and being confident that any that do arise are not from garden-variety influenza. NPR has some recommendations on when and where to get a flu shot to simplify the process and maximize the impact.

Insights from scientific sources change almost daily, but there are ways to stay on top of the latest data. The COVID Data Tracker has breakdowns by state, county, demographics, and more, and your county health department site typically offers information specific to your region.

The last thing anyone wants in a COVID-19 winter is another bug. Look for traditional and holistic ways to manage colds and flus: Some of them will also keep you healthier in the worst-case scenario where you contract COVID-19, too.

Life during a pandemic is tough enough: Fussing over how to eat healthy can compound the stress. Simplify eating well by subscribing to one of many meal box services, or collect a handful of simple recipes.

Movement is one way to optimize health, and if done outside at a distance, one of the safest and most-affordable ways to keep healthy when we’re still facing COVID-19. Invest in a few layers to protect from cold and wet weather, and pay attention to these tips from the National Weather Service to avoid hypothermia.

Getting swole—or just more energetic and strong—doesn’t require daily trips to the gym. Check out affordable or even free online programs that require no or little gear: Some even have online communities to help boost your motivation and build your tribe.

Getting in any steps is an improvement over staying stuck at the keyboard or slumped on the couch. When days get shorter, it's important to gear up for safety when walking outdoors, with a headlamp, reflective clothing, and other ways to stay visible.

Anyone who got obsessed with cycling this year has two options in the winter: Invest in cold-weather gear, or buy an indoor trainer so you can stay warm and dry.

Mountain resorts all over the world have adopted new ways of doing business. Check out your favorite resort’s website to learn what they’re doing to keep snowboarders and skiers safe.

Depression spikes in the winter, and a sense of isolation can lead people to engage in risky behavior. Avoid both by planning ahead with ways to boost your mental health.

Yes, retail therapy is a thing. But don’t just consume indiscriminately. Think of the best way to be happy at minimal cost, whether it’s a comfort meal or 60 minutes of movement and escape at the yoga studio.

Sad is not just an emotion, but a scientifically recognized syndrome that affects some people when sunlight is in short supply. Sun lamps and vitamin D are two low-cost ways to beat seasonal affective disorder.

Feeling lonely is increasingly commonplace in 2020, especially for those who live alone. Fortunately, there are ways to connect online, from Slack groups to language meetups.

Even the best-adjusted are struggling already, and from what the experts say, we have many more months ahead. Online counseling and support groups can both help, and sometimes they’re free.

Anyone who’s new to working remotely because of the pandemic is more than aware of the need to adapt. Fortunately, there are tips for everything from decorating your space to using white noise to drown out distractions.

Thriving in an environment where meetings have gone almost entirely online requires learning new etiquette and new tools. Basic upgrades, from a standing desk to mounting system for a monitor, can help make video chats less of a drag.

Anyone who's used to using mass transit but isn't comfortable with crowded buses and trains will have to find new commuting options during the pandemic. Winter boots and/or traction cleats are one possibility for walkable but wintry commutes.

Make sure your heating systems have been serviced and are in good working order ahead of cold snaps. Rebates and other incentives are available to help prepare energy systems for winter.

Having supplies accessible in an emergency kit is always important. The CDC has some suggestions for pandemic-specific additions.

Winter doesn’t need to be a barrier to safe socializing. With cozy additions like a fire pit or patio heater, plus lighting and perhaps a cover for those soggy days, entertaining outside throughout the chilly season is a real option.

With a winter greenhouse, continuing a pandemic-inspired obsession with gardening is possible. It’s also one way to create community, as long as you have a few social-distancing guidelines in place.

Get a snow shovel, blower, and/or rock salt to clear sidewalks: That way, you and others can safely navigate the neighborhood while meeting at a distance.

By patronizing outdoor markets, not only do you stay safer, but also support farmers, artisans, and other small businesses that have been hit hard by the pandemic.

Exploring the world without leaving your computer is an option these days. Venues ranging from museums to zoos are inviting patrons into their spaces this way.

New research from the CDC talks about ways that COVID-19 spreads indoors. One doctor reminds us that we might not want to remove our masks quite so quickly.

Create a “coronavirus bubble” of friends to better stay under the currently recommended number of people outside your household. But beware: Everyone needs to commit to interacting only with that group, or the game plan won’t work.