The arrival of the fall and winter seasons brings an increased risk of respiratory viruses, with health officials anticipating a significant surge in cases. The three main culprits are influenza, also known as “the flu,” respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and SARS-CoV-2, which causes COVID-19. According to a report released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in late August, the upcoming respiratory virus season is projected to see peak hospitalizations similar to those observed during the previous year. This season is defined from October through mid-May.
In recent years, the combined hospitalization rates for these three illnesses have remained fairly stable. However, when these viruses peak simultaneously, the healthcare system can face significant strain. Vulnerable populations, including individuals over 65 years old and young children—especially those under two years old for RSV and COVID-19, and under five years old for influenza—are at higher risk for severe illness and hospitalization. Other high-risk groups include those with pre-existing conditions such as heart or lung diseases, weakened immune systems, obesity, smoking habits, and pregnant women.
Viruses and Their Mutations
Each of the three viruses is highly contagious. For instance, one person infected with the flu can spread it to one or two additional people. This chain of transmission poses a risk, especially to those more susceptible to severe manifestations of respiratory illnesses. As noted by UnityPoint Health, the more a virus circulates in a population, the greater its chance to mutate, leading to the emergence of new variants. Variants arise when the virus accumulates enough mutations, which might be driven by immunity in the population against older virus strains.
Infectious disease researchers are continuously monitoring these changes to stay updated on the viruses affecting public health. Reducing infections within a community remains the most effective strategy to prevent new variants from developing. Vaccination plays a crucial role in controlling virus spread. Health professionals urge individuals, particularly those at higher risk, to keep current with their vaccinations and booster shots, as antibiotics are ineffective against viruses.
Understanding Different Respiratory Illnesses
The flu and the common cold are both contagious respiratory illnesses but are caused by different viruses. While colds typically present mild symptoms, the flu can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia and hospitalization. Symptoms of influenza can appear abruptly and include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, and muscle aches. Testing for the flu involves a healthcare provider collecting a mucus sample from the nose.
The flu season is expected to peak nationally between December and February, with the CDC categorizing the 2024-2025 season as high-severity across all age groups. This classification marks the first high-severity influenza season since 2017-2018. The CDC notes that if a more severe flu subtype emerges, there may be heightened hospitalization rates, particularly in individuals aged 65 and older.
Most flu symptoms can be managed at home with over-the-counter medications, hydration, and rest. Individuals are advised to remain home for at least 24 hours after their fever resolves—without the aid of fever-reducing medications—to avoid spreading the virus to others.
RSV and Its Impacts
The CDC forecasts that the peak weekly hospitalization rate for RSV during the 2025-2026 season will mirror that of the previous year. RSV typically peaks in late December or early January, although this can vary by region. Nearly all children contract RSV by the age of two, with premature infants and young children being particularly vulnerable to severe illness.
Symptoms of RSV can range from mild cold-like symptoms in adults to severe respiratory distress in infants and older adults. Testing for RSV involves a nasal swab, and while mild cases can often be treated at home, severe cases may require hospitalization and interventions such as oxygen therapy. RSV is highly contagious and can survive on hard surfaces for hours, with the potential for transmission occurring even before symptoms appear.
COVID-19, caused by the virus SARS-CoV-2, remains a significant health concern. First identified in late 2019, COVID-19 has led to severe illness and high mortality rates, particularly among older adults and those with underlying health conditions. The CDC indicates that COVID-19 hospitalization rates for the upcoming winter may align with those from the previous year, with projections suggesting nearly four to six hospitalizations per 100,000 individuals.
The landscape of COVID-19 continues to evolve, with new variants emerging and ongoing vaccination efforts. While the severity of cases has decreased, the threat persists, particularly for high-risk groups. Treatments, including antiviral medications, have improved patient outcomes, but monitoring remains essential.
Preventing Viral Infections
The CDC emphasizes that vaccination is vital in mitigating the impact of these respiratory illnesses. Influenza vaccines are estimated to have prevented approximately 240,000 hospitalizations during the 2024-2025 season, predominantly among older adults. Additionally, new RSV vaccines have shown promise in reducing hospitalizations among infants and older adults.
Despite ongoing controversies surrounding vaccines, their efficacy in lowering hospitalization rates for influenza and RSV is well-documented. The CDC recommends vaccinations for individuals over 65 years, those with underlying conditions, and pregnant women during the RSV season.
In addition to vaccination, practical measures can help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses. These include frequent handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and improving indoor air quality. Individuals are also advised to stay home if they exhibit symptoms or have been exposed to someone with a virus.
As respiratory virus season approaches, health officials urge the public to remain vigilant and informed to safeguard against the spread of these potentially severe illnesses.
