
Stay Healthy This Winter: How to Recognize and Manage Respiratory Infections
As winter settles in, it’s common to see a rise in respiratory infections such as the common cold, influenza (flu), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and COVID-19.
Understanding these illnesses, recognizing their symptoms, and knowing when to seek medical attention can help you and your loved ones stay healthy during the colder months.
Seasonal Trends and Statistics
Winter typically brings an increase in respiratory illnesses.
As of December 20, 2024, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports the following:
- Acute respiratory illness levels are moderate nationwide.
- COVID-19 activity is rising from low levels in some areas.
- Seasonal influenza activity is moderate but increasing.
- RSV activity is high, particularly among young children.

Who Is at Risk and Why
While respiratory infections can affect anyone, certain groups are at higher risk for severe illness:
Infants and Young Children: Their developing immune systems make them more susceptible, especially to RSV, which can lead to serious respiratory issues.
Older Adults: Aging immune systems and potential underlying health conditions increase the risk of complications from infections like the flu and COVID-19.
Individuals with Chronic Health Conditions: People with conditions such as asthma, heart disease, or diabetes are more vulnerable to severe outcomes from respiratory infections.
Pregnant Women: Pregnancy can alter the immune system, making expectant mothers more prone to severe illnesses from flu infections.
Similar But Not the Same, How to Differentiate Viral Respiratory Illnesses
Differentiating between a cold, flu, RSV, and COVID-19 can be challenging due to overlapping symptoms. The following symptom chart can help you discern what is ailing you.
COVID-19 vs. The Flu vs. The Common Cold |
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Symptoms |
COVID-19 |
The Flu |
The Common Cold |
RSV |
Symptom Onset |
2-14 days from exposure |
Abrupt – typically takes 1-3 days |
Gradual – Usually takes 1-3 days |
Gradual – Symptoms appear 4-6 days after exposure |
Recovery Period |
Most people sufficiently recover ten days after the first symptoms appear. Severe cases may take longer to heal. |
Most people recover within 7-10 days |
Usually clears between 3-7 days |
Mild cases resolve within 1-2 weeks; severe cases may require hospitalization. |
Fever |
Common (Fever of 100°F or higher) |
A high-incidence (Fever of 100°-102°F lasting 3-4 days) |
Rarely |
Common (may be low-grade or absent in older children/adults) |
Headache |
Sometimes |
Intense |
Rare |
Common |
Extreme Exhaustion |
Sometimes (when it does develop, it progresses slowly) |
Very Common (usually starts early on) |
No |
Common in severe cases |
Body Aches and Pains |
Sometimes |
Common (often pain is severe) |
Mild |
Sometimes, mild to moderate |
Fatigue, Weakness |
Sometimes |
Common (typically severe) |
Mild |
Common in severe cases |
Stuffy, Runny Nose |
Rare |
Sometimes |
Common |
Common, especially in children |
Sneezing |
Rare |
Sometimes |
Common |
Common |
Sore Throat |
Rare |
Common |
Common |
Common |
Cough |
Common (usually dry) |
Common (can become severe) |
Mild to Moderate |
Common |
Shortness of Breath |
In more serious infections |
Rare |
Rare |
Possible in infants and severe cases |
Diarrhea |
Sometimes |
Sometimes |
No |
Rare |
Loss of Taste or Smell |
Common |
Rare |
Rare |
Rare |
Note: This chart provides general trends; individual symptoms can vary. For a definitive diagnosis, we recommend you consult a healthcare professional.
Complications
While most people recover from colds, flu, RSV, or mild to moderate COVID-19, complications can occur in vulnerable populations such as young children, older adults, and those with underlying conditions.
The following chat shows common complications for each illness.
Complications of COVID-19, The Flu, and The Common Cold |
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Complication |
COVID-19 |
The Flu |
Common Cold |
RSV |
Severe cases can result in many complications, including Pneumonia, respiratory failure, acute respiratory distress syndrome (fluid in lungs), sepsis, cardiac events (e.g., heart attack and stroke), multiple organ failure, inflammation of the heart, brain, or muscle tissue, and death. |
Complications include bronchitis and pneumonia; can be life-threatening |
Sinus infection, middle ear infection, asthma attack |
Bronchiolitis, pneumonia, and severe respiratory distress (especially in infants) |
Sources: CDC, WHO
Severe Symptoms and When to Seek Emergency Care
Please seek immediate medical attention if you or a loved one experience:
- Difficulty Breathing
- Persistent Chest Pain or Pressure
- New Confusion or Inability to Arouse
- Bluish Lips or Face
- High fever, sweats, or chills lasting for several days
- Elevated blood pressure
- Symptoms that don’t improve or become worse over 3-4 days
- Sudden dizziness or confusion
- Trouble swallowing
- Intense or persistent diarrhea or vomiting (this can cause dehydration)
- Sick children who seem lethargic or have trouble responding to stimuli
These signs may indicate a severe respiratory infection requiring prompt treatment.

Rapid Care ER, Your Trusted Partner in Health!
At Rapid Care ER, we understand that health concerns and emergencies don’t take holidays. Our facilities remain open year-round, operating 24/7, with skilled doctors always onsite.
Whether it’s a respiratory infection or any other health issue, we’re here to provide compassionate care for you and your loved ones.