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Worry not on if or when the coronavirus will find its way to Western Tidewater. By and large, that’s practically halfway around the world. The greater threats to health are already here. To be sure, colds are an uncomfortable inconvenience as a few employees here can readily testify. But influenza can be outright debilitating and — let’s not sugar-coat it, deadly — especially for the very young or senior citizens.

Follow the adage that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure by making a doctor’s appointment first thing on Monday to get a flu shot. You could also check if your pharmacy has any such vaccines available.

Meantime, practice basic hygiene of covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing. Frequently wash your hands for several moments after being contact with door knobs or handles or even other people. Consider keeping a supply of those disinfectant cloths around the office or home. Keep your hands away from your face, which can keep any germs that much further away from your mouth and nose. Get plenty of rest at home, eat well and cut back on booze and smokes.

We won’t make promises that following those steps will absolutely guarantee you’ll be shielded from illness this or any other season, but they’re a good start.