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Respiratory illnesses

Respiratory viruses are infections that affect the nose, throat, airways, and lungs. Common respiratory viruses include COVID-19, influenza (flu), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and the common cold. These illnesses can spread easily, especially during the fall and winter months.

respiratory illness icon: thermometer

Symptoms of respiratory viruses

Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include:

  • Fever or chills
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Shortness of breath
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Body aches
  • Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

Some individuals, including older adults, infants, pregnant individuals, and people with chronic medical conditions or weakened immune systems, may be at higher risk for severe illness.

Read our blog post, Cold, Flu, COVID or RSV? Here’s what matters, to learn more.

respiratory illness icon: cough

How respiratory viruses spread

Respiratory viruses spread primarily through:

  • Coughing and sneezing
  • Close contact with infected individuals
  • Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the eyes, nose, or mouth
  • Breathing in respiratory droplets or particles in shared indoor spaces
respiratory illness icon: handwashing

How to help prevent illness

You can help protect yourself and others by:

  • Staying home when sick
  • Washing hands frequently with soap and water
  • Covering coughs and sneezes
  • Cleaning high-touch surfaces regularly
  • Staying up to date with recommended vaccines
  • Considering a mask when sick or around high-risk individuals
respiratory illness icon: handwashing

Masking guidance at Welia Health

Welia Health uses a flexible, data-driven approach to masking based on local and regional respiratory virus activity. Masking recommendations and requirements may change throughout the year. During periods of increased respiratory virus activity, masking may be recommended or required in certain patient care areas to help protect patients, visitors, and healthcare workers. Patients and visitors experiencing respiratory symptoms may also be asked to wear a mask while in Welia Health facilities.

If you’re coughing when you arrive, a mask is available at registration — just ask. If you’re unable to wear one, please use a tissue to cover coughs and sneezes, and clean your hands with soap or hand sanitizer afterward. Please let registration or a staff member know if you’re feeling unwell.

respiratory illness icon: doctor

When to seek medical care

Contact your healthcare provider if:

  • Symptoms are worsening
  • You have difficulty breathing
  • You are at higher risk for severe illness
  • You think you may benefit from testing or treatment

Seek emergency medical attention or call 911 for severe symptoms such as trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion, or bluish lips or skin.

respiratory illness icon: test

Testing and treatment

Testing may help determine the cause of illness and whether treatment is recommended.

Some antiviral medications for illnesses such as COVID-19 or influenza work best when started within 5-7 days of symptom onset.

Welia Health offers evaluation and treatment options for respiratory illnesses. Please contact your healthcare provider with questions regarding symptoms, testing, or treatment recommendations.

Additional resources

Visit the Centers for Disease Control to learn more about respiratory illnesses.

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