OCHD shares information on respiratory illnesses

ONEIDA COUNTY – With respiratory illness season underway, the Oneida County Health Department (OCHD) recently provided tips to help the public understand the differences between common illnesses and what they can do to protect themselves and others.

OCHD explained in a release that the common cold, flu, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) share many symptoms, but they can affect people differently.

“While colds are usually mild, flu, COVID-19 and RSV can sometimes cause serious illness,” OCHD said. “Young children, older adults and people with certain health conditions may be at greater risk.”

Common symptoms with respiratory illnesses include coughing, sneezing, sore throat, fever, body aches and tiredness.

“Some symptoms are more common with certain viruses, but symptoms alone cannot always tell you which illness you have,” OCHD noted.

OCHD provided several steps the public can take to feel better and help protect others:

• Stay home when sick. Return to normal activities when you have been fever free without medication for 24 hours and your symptoms are improving. Take extra steps to prevent spreading illness for the next five days.
• Rest and drink fluids. Give your body time to recover.
• Consider testing. Testing for flu or COVID-19 can help guide treatment decisions.
• Know when to seek care. Contact a healthcare provider if you're at higher risk of serious illness or your symptoms are getting worse.

OCHD noted that staying up-to-date on recommended vaccines can lower risk of serious illness. Washing hands, covering coughs and sneezes and improving indoor air circulation can also help prevent the spread of illness.

OCHD offers several vaccines to the public:

• Flu and COVID-19 vaccines: Walk-ins welcome at OCHD, 100 W. Keenan St., Rhinelander, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• RSV and pneumococcal vaccines: Available by appointment for eligible individuals.
• Additional community vaccine clinics are offered throughout Oneida County. Visit the OCHD website, Facebook, or Instagram for locations.

For more information, visit OCHD, call 715-369-6111 or visit www.oneidacountypublichealth.org.