Every year, respiratory viruses such as influenza (flu), COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) cause hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations and thousands of deaths during the fall and winter virus season.
Common respiratory viral illnesses
Flu COVID-19 RSV Adenovirus Rhinovirus/Enterovirus (common cold) Parainfluenza Parvovirus B19 (Fifth Disease)
Respiratory viruses may cause both upper respiratory tract symptoms (the vocal chords and above) and lower respiratory tract symptoms (below the vocal chords). Some viruses also affect the nose, throat and lungs, and can lead to serious lung infections, such as pneumonia.
Examples of respiratory virus symptoms
Fever Chills Fatigue (tiredness) Cough Runny or stuffy nose Decrease in appetite Sore throat Vomiting New loss of taste or smell Headache, muscle or body aches Diarrhea Weakness
Antivirals vs. antibiotics Differences: Antiviral medicines fight against viruses, while antibiotics fight against bacterial infections.
