Respiratory Illnesses

Respiratory Illness

Respiratory infections include many common illnesses such as influenza (flu), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and COVID-19. When you suspect that you have a respiratory virus, it is important to stay home and away from others while you have symptoms. Some of these symptoms can include cough, shortness of breath, fever, chills, congestion, fatigue, and headache. Find additional information about viral respiratory disease data on the CDPHE webpage.

What to do if you are sick

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has updated their respiratory virus guidance to include a wide range of common respiratory viral illnesses including COVID-19, flu, and RSV. If you are sick or experiencing respiratory virus symptoms, you should:

  • Stay home and away from others for at least 24 hours until you are fever free without the use of fever reducing medication AND your symptoms are improving.
  • When you return to your normal activities, take precautions for the next 5 days. These precautions can include additional steps for cleaner air, hygiene, masking, physical distancing, and/or testing. 

 

Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection (RSV)

Respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. Most people recover in a week or two, but RSV can be serious, especially for infants and older adults. Data is available on current and historical hospitalized RSV cases in Denver County by date, age, sex, and race/ethnicity.

COVID-19

Access all COVID-19 information, updates and guidance for the communities of Denver.

Influenza (Flu)

The flu is an illness caused by a virus (germs) that usually affects the nose, throat, and lungs. It is easily spread from person to person. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The best way to prevent flu is by getting a vaccine each year.

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