Common Viral Illnesses

by | Jun 20, 2024 | Viral Illnesses

What is a Viral Respiratory Illness?

A viral respiratory illness is an infection of the respiratory tract (nose, throat, airways, and lungs) caused by a virus. These infections are very common, especially during the fall and winter months.

Common Types of Viruses Causing Respiratory Illnesses:

  1. Rhinoviruses:
  2. Influenza Viruses (A, B, C, and D):
    • Illness: Influenza (the flu)
    • Symptoms: Fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, headache, fatigue, runny or stuffy nose, sometimes vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children).
    • Citation: “Key Facts About Influenza (Flu).” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). https://archive.cdc.gov/www_cdc_gov/flu/about/keyfacts.htm
      • Note: The CDC provides comprehensive information on influenza viruses, including symptoms, transmission, and prevention.
  3. Coronaviruses:
    • Illness: Common cold (some strains), COVID-19, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS)
    • Symptoms:
      • Common Cold Coronaviruses: Similar to rhinoviruses (runny nose, sore throat, cough).
      • COVID-19: Fever, cough, fatigue, muscle aches, headache, sore throat, loss of taste or smell, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea.
      • SARS/MERS: High fever, cough, shortness of breath, pneumonia, diarrhea.
    • Citation: “Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19).” World Health Organization (WHO). https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019
      • Note: The WHO provides up-to-date information on COVID-19 and other coronaviruses.
  4. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV):
    • Illness: Bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lungs), pneumonia (especially in infants and young children), common cold-like symptoms in older children and adults.
    • Symptoms: Runny nose, cough, fever, wheezing, difficulty breathing, rapid breathing, bluish skin color (cyanosis).
    • Citation: “Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection (RSV).” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/index.html
    • Note: The CDC provides information on RSV infection, including symptoms, transmission, and prevention.
  5. Adenoviruses:
    • Illness: Common cold, bronchitis, pneumonia, conjunctivitis (pinkeye)
    • Symptoms: Runny nose, sore throat, cough, fever, headache, conjunctivitis, diarrhea (sometimes).
    • Citation: “Adenoviruses: Symptoms & Treatment.” Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23022-adenovirus
    • Note: This resource describes the various illnesses caused by adenoviruses.
  6. Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV):
  7. Parainfluenza Viruses (PIV):
    • Illness: Croup (inflammation of the larynx and trachea), bronchiolitis, pneumonia, common cold-like symptoms.
    • Symptoms:
      • Croup: Barking cough, stridor (a high-pitched whistling sound when breathing), hoarseness, runny nose, fever.
      • Other: Runny nose, sore throat, cough, fever.
    • Citation: “Parainfluenza Viruses.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). https://www.cdc.gov/parainfluenza/about/index.html
    • Note: The CDC provides information on parainfluenza viruses, including symptoms and transmission.

General Symptoms of Viral Respiratory Illnesses:

While specific symptoms vary depending on the virus, some common symptoms of viral respiratory illnesses include:

  • Cough
  • Runny nose
  • Nasal congestion
  • Sore throat
  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Muscle aches
  • Fatigue
  • Sneezing
  • Wheezing (in some cases)
  • Difficulty breathing (in severe cases)

Diagnosis:

  • Often diagnosed based on symptoms.
  • Rapid diagnostic tests (e.g., rapid influenza tests, rapid COVID-19 tests, RSV tests) can be used to identify specific viruses.
  • PCR tests can also be used to detect viral RNA in respiratory samples.

Treatment:

  • Most viral respiratory illnesses are treated with supportive care:
    • Rest
    • Fluids
    • Over-the-counter pain relievers and fever reducers (e.g., acetaminophen, ibuprofen)
    • Decongestants
    • Cough suppressants (use with caution, especially in children)
  • Antiviral medications are available for some viral infections (e.g., influenza, COVID-19), but they are not effective against all viruses.
  • Antibiotics are not effective against viral infections.

Prevention:

  • Vaccination: Get vaccinated against influenza and COVID-19. An RSV vaccine is also now available for older adults and infants.
  • Handwashing: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
  • Avoid Touching Your Face: Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Cover Your Cough: Cough or sneeze into your elbow or a tissue.
  • Stay Home When Sick: Avoid contact with others when you are sick.
  • Wear a Mask: Wear a mask in crowded indoor settings, especially during peak respiratory virus season.
  • Disinfect Surfaces: Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

Important Considerations:

  • This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice.
  • Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of any medical condition.
  • Seek medical attention if you experience severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, persistent high fever, or dehydration.
  • The information on specific viruses and illnesses is constantly evolving, so it’s important to stay informed about the latest recommendations from public health authorities.