As the triple threat of flu, covid, and RSV, what's being called a "tripledemic" of respiratory illnesses, continues to surge across the United States, medical professionals and officials in some cities are urging a return to masking in public. Respiratory illnesses spiked following the Thanksgiving holiday, and health officials worry about a similar situation as families gather and travel for Christmas. Wearing a mask in public, on public transportation, and when in close spaces with people outside your household can help you avoid both catching and spreading viruses over the winter.