Respiratory Viruses
Many respiratory viruses, like influenza (flu), COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), circulate year-round in the US and New York, typically with more activity in fall and winter (October - May).
Respiratory viruses can cause cold or flu-like symptoms and can be more serious in some people.
These illnesses can spread through:
- Direct interactions like sneezing or coughing.
- Indirect contact, like touching contaminated objects.
For more specific information about each of these viruses, visit Understanding Respiratory Illnesses - RSV, Flu, and COVID-19.
How Can I Protect Myself and Others?
To minimize the risk of catching or transmitting these illnesses:
- Get Vaccinated: Visit the Vaccines and Immunization page to learn about seasonal flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines.
- Stay home when sick and avoid close contact with people who are sick: This simple step can slow the spread of flu, RSV, COVID-19, and even the common cold.
- Get tested: Displaying symptoms? Test kits for COVID-19 and the flu are widely available at pharmacies. If positive and you are in a higher risk group, call your health care provider to see if antiviral treatment is recommended for you.
- Wear a mask: Wear a mask in crowded places. For best protection, opt for respirator masks like N95 or KN95. If you do not have those, use a surgical mask.
- Wash your hands: Wash hands frequently for at least 20 seconds or use a 60% alcohol-based sanitizer.
- Practice good hygiene: Cover coughs and sneezes with the inside of an elbow or tissue. Dispose of tissues properly and clean hands afterward. Clean frequently touched surfaces.
- Improve air quality: Indoor air quality can play a key role in the transmission of airborne viruses. Good air flow helps stop viruses from building up and spreading. You can improve indoor air quality by:
- Opening doors and windows
- Using fans to bring in fresh air
- Improving performance of mechanical ventilation (or HVAC) systems by performing regular maintenance, including cleaning or replacing air filters
- Using portable air cleaning devices.
Who is at high risk?
Anyone can get a respiratory virus, but some people have a higher risk of getting very sick, including:
- Older adults
- Younger children
- People with weakened immune systems
- People with disabilities
- People who are pregnant
- People with underlying health conditions, such as heart disease, lung disease, obesity and overweight, liver disease, kidney disease, dementia, cystic fibrosis, cancer, blood disorders, HIV/AIDS, history of stroke, tuberculosis, and those who smoke or used to smoke.
