RSV is a common cold-like virus that primarily affects children. Doctors believe that this virus will be especially problematic this year as social-distancing eases and kids return to school.

Symptoms of RSV in children

• Runny nose
• Fever
• Cough

COVID-19

For those who have received both doses of the COVID-19 vaccination, keep in mind that it is still possible to get infected with COVID-19. Remember, the purpose of the COVID-19 vaccination is not to prevent catching the virus. The purpose is to keep you out of the hospital and reduce the chances of serious illness or death with COVID-19 if you are infected.

Symptoms of COVID-19 may include

• Fever
• Cough
• Tiredness
• Loss of taste or smell
• Shortness of breath
• Difficulty breathing or gasping for breath

Because the symptoms of COVID-19 are similar to the flu, it is difficult to determine which one you may have. If you have reason to suspect that you have COVID-19, such as a close contact develops COVID-19, then the first thing to do is self-isolate at home.

When to See Your Doctor

Cold and Flu

The vast majority of colds and cases of the flu can be dealt with at home with a combination of rest, fluids and over the counter medications. However, if you experience symptoms like shortness of breath, a temperature that does not go away or a persistent cough, then make an appointment to see your doctor.

RSV and Children

As with most situations where children get a cold, keep them at home from school and focus on rest and fluids. Treatment of RSV is based around easing and managing symptoms. But if any of the following are experienced then make an appointment to see your child’s doctor.

• Trouble eating, drinking, or swallowing.
• Fever (temperature of 100.4 or higher) that does not go away.
• Difficulty breathing.
• Symptoms that don’t get better, or get worse.

COVID-19

If you are unsure whether you have COVID-19 or the flu, contact your local 24-hour emergency room for details about COVID-19 testing criteria and testing locations.

As usual, it is best to stay at home and self-isolate until you determine (via COVID-19 testing) whether you have COVID-19 or not.

Use your symptoms as a guide. If you have mild-moderate symptoms, this can be managed at home with rest, fluids and over-the-counter medications such as aspirin or tylenol.

Regardless of what you believe the diagnosis to be, pay attention to the severity of your symptoms. For example, you should always seek medical help if you have urgent or life-threatening symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest pain.

Things You Can Do To Keep Yourself and Your Family Safe This Winter Season

• Get vaccinated -that includes the flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccination.
• Continue to practice good hand hygiene.
• If you are sick, stay at home and away from places like work or school to limit the spread of any respiratory illness.
• Wear a mask in indoors settings or locations where there is a high number of COVID-19 cases.