A slew of respiratory viruses are sickening millions of people in New Jersey, Pennsylvania and across our region. Reflecting national trends, the Mid-Atlantic faces an onslaught of flu, RSV, COVID and the common cold.
We’re seeing many emergency room visits related to respiratory infections of all kinds”, said Dr. Martin Topiel, chief of infection prevention at Virtua Health. “Certainly, flu is a major part of that”. These infections are not always easy to tell apart, but knowing which kind you have helps you get the right treatment.
Dr. Martin Topiel of Virtua Infectious Disease Physicians explains that tests can help you identify the type of infection. A positive test almost always means you in fact have that virus. In other words, false positives are extremely rare. However, a negative test does not necessarily mean you’re in the clear. “The problem is if the tests are negative, it really doesn’t rule out COVID, it doesn’t rule out influenza,” Topiel said. “It might mean there’s a low viral level, but it still might cause significant symptoms. Or it may just be we’re hitting it at the wrong time.” Your symptoms can also tell you a lot about your illness. Each kind of infection has a typical set of symptoms which can help you identify what’s making you sick, and get better sooner.
Flu
What to watch for: Flu typically comes on very quickly and it hits you hard with fever, body ache, headache and extreme tiredness. “We expect people to be sick anywhere from 48 hours to five days,” said Dr. Topiel.
Treatment: If started right away, Tamiflu can lessen the intensity and length of the infection. Individuals with flu should get plenty of rest and fluids, and may take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) to manage symptoms.
RSV
What to watch for: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is currently most common in young kids. Typical signs of RSV include wheezing and breathing problems, and fever.
Treatment: RSV can be treated by drinking plenty of water, getting rest, and taking acetaminophen (Tylenol).
Common Cold
What to watch for: The “Common colds” are also very active at the moment. These infections develop more gradually than the flu develop more slowly. These illnesses often cause sneezing, congestion and a sore throat.
Treatment: Colds are caused by viruses, not bacteria. Therefore, antibiotics are typically NOT appropriate. Antibiotics do not work against viruses.
“So all these viruses are a little different in how they transmit. The bottom line is we have to be careful at all times right now during this dangerous winter season,” said Dr. Topiel.
