Respiratory Illnesses & Facts

What You Should Know About Flu, COVID-19, and RSV

For over 125 years, Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey (VNANNJ) has been committed to improving the health and wellness of our community. We believe it is important to provide our neighbors with resources that will help them live happier and healthier lives. We would especially like to highlight information surrounding respiratory illnesses and the importance of protecting yourself and others.

Respiratory illnesses are viruses that cause you to feel sick by affecting your nose, throat, and lungs. Common respiratory viruses include influenza (flu), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and COVID-19. Every year, hundreds of thousands of people are hospitalized from complications associated with respiratory viruses.

Examples of respiratory virus symptoms

Fever
Chills
Fatigue (tiredness)
Cough
Runny or stuffy nose
Decrase in appetite
Sore throat
Vomiting
New loss of taste or smell
Headache, muscle or body aches
Diarrhea
Weakness

Groups of people at a higher risk for respiratory illnesses

Older adults
Young children
People with weakened immune systems
People with disabilites
Pregnant or recently pregnant people

Core prevention strategies
Vaccinating against flu, COVID-19, and RSV can help keep you from getting sick. Even if you do get sick after getting vaccinated, your symptoms will likely be mild.

Frequently wash your hands with soap and water.
Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, and throw the tissue away immediately.
Avoid touching your nose, mouth, and eyes. Germs spread this way.
Eat well and get enough rest. Avoid getting “run down” which can lower your immunity to illness.
Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

Contact your healthcare professional or Primary Care Physician for specific guidance.

Helpful information