Flu, COVID-19, and RSV: What you Need to Know

Winter is a special time of year in Vermont. Snow, barren trees, and cold clear days.

So too with winter, comes an increase in highly contagious, air-born respiratory viruses easily spread when we are spending more time in doors.

This is why at Champlain Medical you stay on top of your flu vaccination, especially for children and the elderly who are most vulnerable to the flu. Getting a flu vaccination decreases your chances of getting the flu. 

The flu is not the only illness caused by a virus. Covid-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (SRV) are also caused by viruses. They often have similar symptoms, and it can be difficult  to tell them apart without being tested. 

A brief overview of each virus:

    •    Flu is caused by the influenza virus, a virus which mutates year to year.The symptoms are often mild, but can be severe and even life threatening, especially for children and the elderly. 
    •    Covid-19. Covid is caused by a coronavirus, a family of viruses which are corona (crown) shaped. There are many variations, not all affecting humans. 
    •    RSV is  a virus that primarily affects your lungs and throat. 

Each of these viruses has similar symptoms: fever, body aches, coughing, wheezing and fatigue. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please call Champlain Medical immediately, or go the ER. 

Get Tested

At Champlain Medical we can administer a simple test that will tell you if you have the flu, covid, or RSV. Once we have an accurate diagnosis, we can recommend the best course of treatment to get you feeling better as soon as possible. 

While there are exceptions, most of the viruses are treatable through common sense treatments like rest, staying away from others to avoid spreading the virus, staying hydrated, and keeping warm. Symptoms are strongest on the outset, and generally improve within a few days. 

If your symptoms persist, or are severe, call us immediately.