FALL & WINTER SURGE OF RESPIRATORY ILLNESSES

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We are seeing a surge of respiratory illnesses. 

 

Please note common respiratory illnesses are often caused by viral infections; most of the time, these do not require antibiotics or medical interventions. Please see information below on when you should seek medical care or go to the Emergency Department. 

 

Expected timeline of common viral infections:

· Common Cold or Flu: lasts 7-14 days

· Acute Pharyngitis (sore throat): lasts 3-7 days

· Acute bronchitis (chest cold): lasts 7-21 days

· Acute sinusitis (sinus infection): lasts 7-14 days

· COVID-19: lasts 5-14 days

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When you have a viral infection you should:

· Rest as much as possible

· Drink plenty of fluids

· Wash your hands frequently and stay home

· Wear a mask

· Take over-the-counter medication such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) for fever, aches or sore throat

 

If you have access to a COVID-19 rapid test (RAT), please test yourself.

*If you have COVID-19 and are 70 or older or are immunocompromised please call our office within the first few days of symptoms to discuss possible treatment with Paxlovid.

 

Antibiotics are not effective in treating viral infections. Antibiotics can cause side effects (e.g. diarrhea, yeast infections) and may cause harms such as severe diarrhea, allergic reactions, kidney or liver injury.

 

Please call our office for an appointment if:

· Symptoms are not improving in the above expected time or worsening at any time.

· You have a child with a fever for 4 or more days, or at any time with a child 6 months or younger.

· You have emphysema or chronic bronchitis, asthma or other underlying medical issues that put you at higher risk of complications.

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*At any time if you are having shortness of breath or chest pain, you should go to your nearest Emergency Room.