Even before COVID became part of our vocabulary, fall has marked the start of respiratory season as viruses circulate when people spend more time indoors. This year, we have already seen an uptick in local activity of respiratory illness.

Respiratory infections such as colds, the flu (influenza), COVID, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are caused by viruses spread through droplets: When someone who is infected coughs or sneezes, droplets containing the viruses are released into the air. The viruses also get onto your hands or the tissue when you blow your nose.

They are easily spread from person to person when a lot of people touch the same objects, like doorknobs or faucets, and when people come into direct contact with each other, for instance by shaking hands or hugging.

Some respiratory illnesses may share some symptoms, but some can make you more sick than others:

• Cold symptoms tend to be milder than flu symptoms, so you may still be able to carry on with your normal activities. Colds tend to come on slowly and last for a few days to about one week.
• Flu symptoms may include fever, chills, headache, extreme tiredness (fatigue), cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, and muscle aches. Symptoms tend to come on quickly and can last a few weeks. (The so-called “stomach flu,” when adults have vomiting or diarrhea for one or two days, is probably a gastrointestinal infection rather than influenza.)
• COVID symptoms continue to vary from very mild to serious enough to require hospitalization, especially among the elderly and people with underlying illnesses. This is true even of the newest variants.
• RSV is a very common illness that is usually mild but can be threatening for babies and older adults. Symptoms in serious cases include wheezing and trouble breathing.

No one likes getting sick. In addition, high levels of respiratory activity can increase pressure on healthcare systems. To protect yourself and others from germs during this upcoming respiratory season:

• Stay home if you are sick, especially until 24 hours after a fever resolves. Keep your distance from people who have respiratory infections.
• Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze. Use a tissue or your elbow. Always wash your hands after coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose.
• The importance of handwashing cannot be underestimated. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer when you don’t have access to soap and water Try not to touch your eyes, nose, and mouth to prevent germs from entering your system.
• Avoid crowds during flu season.
• Don't smoke or let others smoke in your home or car.
• Try to get a good night’s sleep. Studies have shown that sleep deprivation leads to decreased immune function, leading to increased frequency of infections and decreased response to preventive vaccines.

Ask your healthcare provider what vaccines are right for you and when you should get them.

Recommended vaccines may include:

• Influenza vaccine. The best time to get your “flu shot” is each fall, before flu season ramps up.
• COVID-19 vaccine. We are pleased that the newly formulated vaccination for Fall 2023 shows a good boost in protection against currently circulating strains of the virus.
• RSV vaccine. A very welcome arrival to the prevention toolbox is the RSV vaccine, recommended for babies, pregnant women, and those over age 60. We expect it to be more widely available later this fall.

Together, let’s protect ourselves and each other by following these simple steps.