text:  Malani says with more COVID currently circulating, it makes sense for those at increased risk to take added precautions, like masking in crowded public spaces. She says check with your doctor to make sure you are up to date on your COVID vaccinations. And test if you feel unwell, because antiviral medications like Paxlovid that help lessen the severity of COVID need to be taken within days of the start of symptoms. Maria Godoy, NPR News. And you're listening to NPR News.