Respiratory Illness
These illnesses affect the nose, throat, and lungs that make up the respiratory system. These illnesses are caused by different viruses but may result in similar symptoms.
Cold
A cold is a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract. Colds are caused by multiple viruses. Colds are typically mild and are very common.
Flu
Influenza (flu) is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. Flu symptoms can be severe. Older adults very young children, and people with underlying health conditions and weakened immune systems are at greater risk of severe flu symptoms.
COVID-19
COVID-19 is a respiratory illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Symptoms can range from very mild to very severe. Symptoms of COVID-19 can last for more than 12 weeks after infection (“long COVID”). People with underlying conditions like asthma, lung disease, or weakened immune systems are at particular risk of severe symptoms.
RSV
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a respiratory virus that causes cold-like symptoms. Anyone can get RSV, but it can be severe in infants and older adults. People with underlying conditions like asthma, lung disease, or weakened immune systems are at particular risk of severe symptoms.