Many respiratory viruses spread year-round in the United States but are seen at higher levels during the fall and winter months. Currently, the U.S. is experiencing elevated levels of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza (flu), and COVID-19. Find out who’s at higher risk for severe illness, how to protect yourself and others from these viruses, and how to care for people who may have RSV, flu, or COVID-19.

The good news is that many of the same behaviors can help protect people from all 3 viruses, plus many others that may be circulating and have similar symptoms.

Want to hear directly from the experts about these illnesses? View the recording from our Nov. 29th EPIC Webinar: Flu, RSV, COVID-19 and other Respiratory Threats.

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common virus that usually causes mild cold-like symptoms like cough, runny nose, and low-grade fever. It can also cause wheezing. Most people recover in a week or two, but RSV can be serious, especially in babies and children under 5 years old and in older adults. Severe infections can include bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lung) or pneumonia (infection of the lungs), and RSV can also make conditions like asthma worse.

How it spreads: RSV can be spread through coughs, sneezes, direct contact with the virus (like kissing the face of a child with RSV),and touching contaminated surfaces.

Treatment: While there’s no specific treatment for RSV infection, you can take over-the-counter fever reducers and pain relievers like acetaminophen and ibuprofen to relieve symptoms. Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Talk to your healthcare provider before giving your child nonprescription cold medicines. Call your healthcare provider if you or your child is having difficulty breathing, not drinking enough fluids, or experiencing worsening symptoms.

Prevention: If you are sick, stay home; keep other sick family members home as well and away from those at high risk for RSV. Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue, wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, and clean surfaces such as toys, doorknobs, and mobile devices.