The upper respiratory tract is the nose and throat. Upper respiratory illnesses are caused by infectious or noninfectious agents that affect the upper respiratory tract. These illnesses include colds, influenza, and sinusitis (sinus infection). The most common symptoms of an upper respiratory illness are a cough, sore throat, runny nose, and congestion. These symptoms may last for days or weeks.
Flu and upper respiratory illnesses are viral infections that affect the airways and lungs. They cause symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, or congestion. Some people may also have headaches, body aches, chills or fatigue. The flu season usually occurs between October and May, with peak activity between December and February.
COVID is a type of illness that is not covered by the seasonal flu vaccine. The virus effects people of all ages, but most of the time it is mild. The symptoms for COVID are similar to those of the regular flu. The best way to prevent this illness is through vaccination against it, as well as other upper respiratory illnesses that may be around you.
COVID symptoms include:
Flu symptoms include:
Flu Vaccine Information
The flu shot is the best way to prevent the flu. However, it’s not 100% effective so you can still get the virus if you are exposed to someone who has it, even if you have been vaccinated. You also can’t tell who has or hasn’t been vaccinated by looking at them because some people with a mild illness from another virus may mistakenly believe they don’t need a vaccine when they really do.
COVID Vaccine Information