Winter is here! With it come festive gatherings, colder temperatures, and unfortunately a rise in respiratory illnesses. As families and friends prepare to spend more time together in the coming weeks, the Blue Ridge Health District (BRHD) wants to remind everyone how to enjoy the holidays while staying healthy and safe.  

So far this season, we are seeing increased activity of illnesses such as flu, COVID-19, and pertussis (also known as “whooping cough”). These illnesses don’t just derail holiday plans – they can also cause severe illness and hospitalization for those especially vulnerable. Let’s review some of the current illnesses in circulation:

Flu

Onset: Rapid
Common Symptoms:

• Fever
• Dry cough
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Aches & pains

COVID-19

Onset: Gradual or rapid
Common Symptoms:

• Fever
• Chills
• Cough
• Loss of taste/smell
• Sore throat
• Headaches
• Body aches

Pertussis (Whooping Cough)

Onset: Gradual
Common Symptoms:

• Runny/stuffy nose
• Low-grade fever
• Apnea (in babies)
• Long coughing fits (may be followed by “whooping” sound in kids)
• Caused by a bacterial infection, pertussis is very contagious and can last for several weeks. It’s casually named after the “whooping” sound that can follow coughs in children (not in adults). Pertussis symptoms vary depending on age and vaccination status. It usually appears similar to a cold at first but later develops into a more severe and long-lasting cough. Pertussis can be extremely dangerous for babies. To learn more, visit CDC's Pertussis webpage.

Common Cold

Onset: Gradual
Common Symptoms:

• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Mild headache
• Sore throat
• Aches & pains
• Mild cough

• Stay home when sick and avoid contact with others. If you must be in public, wear a well-fitting mask when indoors or around others.
• Contact your healthcare provider or a local urgent care if you develop symptoms (especially if you've been exposed to a respiratory illness) for testing and treatment options.
• Practice good hygiene like proper 20-second handwashing, coughing into your elbow, and cleaning often touched surfaces.
• Stay up to date with vaccinations, both seasonal and routine. If you’re missing an immunization, talk to your provider about catching up.
• Take steps for cleaner air by increasing airflow in indoor spaces. Portable HEPA filters, cracked or open windows, overhead fans, and AC systems set to “On” can provide extra circulation. When possible, gather outdoors.