The flu and other viral respiratory illnesses are spread when an infected person expels droplets or particles. Transmission occurs when an infected person coughs, sneezes, breathes heavily (e.g. during physical exertion) or sweats, and the released viral particles are then absorbed through the noses, mouths, eyes, genitals or cuts in the skin of others. Viral particles can also be transported from a hard surface to one’s hands and then transported from one’s hands to one of the aforementioned ports of entry.

Understanding the chain of infection is the first step in prevention.

Staying up-to-date with your vaccines continues to be the most effective layer of defense we can implement for our community.

• We urge eligible individuals to obtain the COVID-19 2024-25 vaccine and their annual flu vaccination.
• If you are over age 65 or immunocompromised, consider getting the RSV vaccination.
• Under the Affordable Care Act, most private health insurance plans cover flu and COVID-19 vaccines without a co-payment, provided that you use an in-network provider or pharmacy.

Pharmacies near SVA:

• CVS
• Walgreens
• ProHealth

If your plan does not cover vaccines, use NYC Vaccine Finder and filter for NO COST clinics.

• Wash your hands with soap and water often.
• Avoid touching your face when in crowded spaces.
• Wear a face mask when you have mild cold symptoms and when you are in crowded indoor spaces.
• Keep common areas well-ventilated.
• Stay well-hydrated.
• Eat healthy meals and snacks.
• Get ample sleep.
• Stay up to date with preventative health screenings.

Symptoms of a viral respiratory illness may include one or more of the following:

• Cough
• Fever
• Hoarse voice
• Fatigue/Lack of Energy
• Red eyes
• Runny nose
• Sore throat
• Swollen lymph nodes (swelling on the sides of your neck)

If you have a fever, sore throat or persistent cough it is important to test for COVID. If fever persists for more than three days or symptoms worsen then please consult a healthcare provider, who will perform a swab test for flu, strep throat, and possibly RSV.

Follow the CDC guidelines to prevent the spread of viral illness when you are sick.

Everyone gets sick from time to time. We are constantly exposed to a host of germs, both good and bad. That exposure intensifies as the weather gets cold and more people congregate indoors. The stresses of everyday life contribute to our susceptibility and our ability to fight off exposure to viral cells. Seek out consultation from your primary healthcare provider or CityMD for treatment.

Treatment

• Most viral infections resolve on their own. 
• You can take over-the-counter medications such as Acetaminophen to relieve fever and muscle aches while you wait for your immune system to fight off the virus. 
• There are antiviral medicines to treat some viral infections. 
• Antibiotics do not work for viral infections. 
• Tamiflu may be prescribed for some people with influenza A or B who have had symptoms for less than two days. 
• Other medications such as Paxlovid may be prescribed to lessen the severity of symptoms for certain high-risk individuals who test positive for COVID-19.

Illness Recovery Tips

The universal key ingredients to most viral illness recoveries are:

• Rest
• Fluids
• Time
• Healthy meals and snacks
• Low stimulation
• Gentle exercise
• More rest