As the back-to-school season begins, so does the return of seasonal illnesses that we all know too well. With respiratory viruses on the rise, what can we expect this fall? Here’s a breakdown of common fall illnesses, their symptoms, and treatment options for flu, COVID-19, colds, RSV, and more.
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Flu
COVID-19
Colds
RSV
Fall Allergies
Flu: What to Expect
Symptoms:
Flu symptoms—sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, and cough—often overlap with other respiratory viruses. However, the flu tends to strike quickly, with symptoms appearing suddenly. Along with a sore throat and cough, you’re more likely to experience fever, muscle aches, and extreme fatigue, which are less common with a cold.
Fall Outlook:
According to the CDC, influenza activity has been low so far, but experts predict flu cases to increase starting in November. Dr. Mandy Cohen, CDC Director, anticipates a “typical” flu season, similar to last year’s. Despite this, flu seasons can still lead to a high number of hospitalizations and deaths, particularly among those over 65 and children.
What You Can Do:
The flu vaccine is the best defense. It’s available for everyone aged 6 months and older, and this year’s vaccine is expected to match the circulating strains. Flu shots can be administered alongside the COVID-19 vaccine, and it’s safe to do so in either the same or different arms.
If you do get sick, you can take an at-home rapid test or visit your doctor to confirm whether it’s the flu or something else. Antiviral medications can also help reduce the severity and duration of the illness, especially for high-risk individuals.
COVID-19: A Fall Forecast
Symptoms:
COVID-19 shares many symptoms with the flu, including a sore throat, cough, muscle aches, fever, and fatigue. What sets COVID-19 apart is the gradual onset of symptoms, which may worsen over time, along with the potential loss of taste or smell—symptoms less common in the flu.
Fall Outlook:
While the fall COVID-19 season is expected to be typical, the virus tends to defy seasonal patterns, as evidenced by the summer surge of cases. Surveillance data shows that COVID-19 hospitalizations and deaths have decreased thanks to vaccines and previous infections, but COVID still leads to more severe outcomes than the flu.
What You Can Do:
An updated COVID-19 vaccine is available for everyone aged 6 months and older. The vaccine should provide a good match to the circulating variants, though it’s important to note that new variants can emerge. The vaccine is particularly recommended for high-risk groups, including the elderly, pregnant women, and those with underlying health conditions.
The Common Cold: A Fall Staple
Symptoms:
Cold symptoms are typically milder than flu or COVID-19 and include a runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, mild cough, and low-grade fever. Unlike the flu, cold symptoms develop gradually, peaking after 2–3 days.
Fall Outlook:
Colds are more common during the fall and winter months, primarily due to indoor gatherings and dry air, which make our nasal passages more vulnerable. There are over 200 viruses that can cause colds, with rhinovirus being the most common.
What You Can Do:
While there’s no specific cure for the common cold, staying hydrated and getting plenty of rest is key. Over-the-counter medications like decongestants or antihistamines can help relieve symptoms, and pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can alleviate muscle aches.
RSV: A Respiratory Threat for the Very Young and Elderly
Symptoms:
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) starts like a cold, with symptoms including sneezing, runny nose, fever, and cough. A distinct “barking” cough or wheezing can indicate a more severe infection, especially in infants and older adults.
Fall Outlook:
RSV is expected to peak between October and January, causing hospitalizations for infants and older adults, particularly those with weakened immune systems or chronic conditions. The virus remains a leading cause of hospitalization in infants and the elderly.
What You Can Do:
Vaccines for RSV are available for pregnant women and seniors over the age of 60, who are most vulnerable to severe disease. For most people, RSV resolves on its own, but it’s important to seek medical attention if you experience difficulty breathing or dehydration.
Fall Allergies: Not a Virus, But Just as Troublesome
Symptoms:
Seasonal allergies, though not viral, can cause symptoms similar to those of a cold, including a runny nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes. Unlike viral infections, allergies won’t cause a fever, and symptoms can persist for weeks or even months.
Fall Outlook:
Ragweed pollen is a primary trigger for fall allergies, with peak season running from late summer through early winter. The extended allergy season is also a result of climate change, leading to warmer temperatures and longer periods of pollen release.
What You Can Do:
Over-the-counter treatments like antihistamines, nasal sprays, and decongestants can help alleviate symptoms. Avoiding allergens and limiting exposure can also help, though some home remedies like humidifiers and essential oils may actually worsen symptoms.
By understanding the differences between these seasonal illnesses and taking the necessary precautions, you can stay ahead of fall’s respiratory challenges. Make sure to stay up-to-date on your vaccinations, practice good hygiene, and take care of yourself and your loved ones.
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