Navigating Virus Season
A Gentle Guide to Staying Well
As the seasons shift and temperatures drop, respiratory viruses become more common, spreading through homes, schools, and workplaces. Sniffles, coughs, and fevers start making their rounds, reminding us that virus season is here. If you’re feeling under the weather or simply want to stay ahead of seasonal sickness, let’s take a moment to untangle the web of viruses making the rounds—RSV, flu, COVID-19, and the common cold.
Understanding the Players: RSV, Flu, COVID-19, and the Common Cold
Each virus has its own personality, its own way of making itself known. Knowing their differences can help you make informed decisions about testing, treatment, and prevention.
RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)
Common in young children and older adults, but anyone can catch it.
Starts with mild cold-like symptoms but can worsen, leading to wheezing or difficulty breathing.
More likely to cause severe illness in infants and older adults.
Influenza (Flu)
Hits fast and hard—one day you feel fine, the next you’re in bed with fever, chills, and body aches.
Often includes fatigue, a cough, sore throat, and sometimes nausea.
Can lead to complications like pneumonia, especially in high-risk individuals.
COVID-19
Symptoms vary widely, from mild sniffles to severe respiratory distress.
Often includes fever, fatigue, cough, loss of taste or smell (though newer strains may not always present this way).
Can have long-term effects, even after the initial illness passes.
The Common Cold (Rhinovirus and Other Viruses)
Usually mild and lingers for about a week.
Sneezing, stuffy nose, and a scratchy throat are the most common symptoms.
Unlike flu or COVID-19, it rarely causes high fever or extreme fatigue.
How to Tell What You Have: Testing & Diagnosis
With so many overlapping symptoms, testing is the best way to know what’s behind your cough or congestion. Here’s a quick guide:
COVID-19: Rapid home tests are widely available; PCR tests are more accurate but take longer.
Flu: A doctor can run a rapid flu test, though it’s not always necessary for mild cases.
RSV: A nasal swab test at a doctor’s office can confirm RSV, usually recommended for infants or high-risk adults.
Common Cold: No test needed—if your symptoms are mild and manageable, it’s likely a cold.
Prevention: Your Best Defense
While no method is foolproof, layering protections can reduce your risk of getting sick:
Vaccines: Annual flu shots and COVID-19 boosters can help protect you from severe illness.
Hand Hygiene: Wash hands frequently with soap and water or use sanitizer when out and about.
Masking & Ventilation: If viruses are surging in your area, wearing a mask in crowded spaces and keeping air flowing indoors can make a big difference.
Rest & Nutrition: A strong immune system starts with adequate sleep, nutritious food, and hydration.
Treatment: What to Do If You Get Sick
If you find yourself under the weather, the best medicine is often simple: rest, fluids, and time. Here’s a breakdown:
RSV & Common Cold: No specific treatment—stay hydrated and rest.
Flu: Antiviral medications (like Tamiflu or Xofluza) can help if taken early.
COVID-19: Antivirals like Paxlovid are available for high-risk individuals. In addition some data shows famotidine 80mg three times a day may help decrease symptoms severity and duration.
Symptom Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers, throat lozenges, and humidifiers can provide some relief from discomfort..
The Bottom Line
Virus season may be inevitable, but with knowledge and preparation, we can navigate it with care. Whether it’s bundling up with a warm cup of tea, scheduling a vaccine, or simply washing hands a little more often, small actions add up. And if you do fall ill? Give yourself the grace to rest and recover—your body is doing the hard work of healing.
Stay well, stay informed, and take good care.
- Dr. Michael Pitman, MD