How to handle season of RSV, COVID, flu

This paid piece is sponsored by Avera Health.

Respiratory illnesses pose serious health threats any time of year. During the holidays when people are celebrating and traveling, things can spread quickly.

Cases of eespiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, are already on the rise.

The three main viruses this time of year are:

• RSV, which often affects babies and children.
• COVID-19, which continues to cause hospitalizations and serious illness.
• Influenza, or the flu, which is common but dangerous, especially for the very young and old.

While flu season falls often in autumn, and RSV case numbers are higher in winter, COVID-19 is a newer, yearlong threat.

“RSV is really contagious and hits the little ones really hard,” said Dr. Kara Bruning, clinical vice president of Avera’s pediatric service line. “We see kids with serious flu and COVID-19 too.”

What are the symptoms?

RSV, flu and COVID all have similar symptoms:

• Fever
• Sneezing and congestion
• Coughing
• Decreased appetite
• Headache and muscle aches
• Sore throat
• Fatigue

While less common, RSV can affect adults as well as kids. It’s also possible to get multiple viruses at one time.

Warning signs of respiratory viruses include a high fever and trouble breathing. Bruning said children, including infants, who struggle with breathing use extra muscles to help. Their tummies will start to “suck in” below and between their ribs. Blueish lips or fingertips are other signs of a baby’s breathing issues.

“If you see this sort of thing, call your provider,” Bruning said.

What do you do?

“We need to do everything we can to stop these viruses before they start,” Bruning said.

• Stay home when you’re sick, and keep sick kids home when they’re ill too.
• Since the illnesses share symptoms, call your provider to get tested and diagnosed because treatment will vary.
• To prevent spread, practice regular handwashing and social distancing or consider wearing a mask.
• Get a yearly flu shot and stay up to date on recommended COVID vaccines and boosters. There is no vaccine for RSV.

Flu shots and COVID-19 vaccinations

“Getting vaccinated is the safest way to protect yourself from getting seriously ill,” said Dr. Jawad Nazir, Avera Medical Group infectious disease and internal medicine specialist.

Vaccinations can help stop the spread of viruses, especially to vulnerable people such as the very young, old or those with underlying medical conditions.

While vaccines won’t prevent all cases of viral illnesses, their valuable protection against serious cases and hospitalization makes them the gold standard in preventive medicine.

Keep reading

• The bivalent COVID booster
• Flu-buster soup recipe

Get more health and wellness tips at AveraBalance.org.