Colder weather brings increase in respiratory illness

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – With the weather getting colder, experts predict the flu, RSV and COVID-19 will become more common.

Dr. Miller Sullivan, with Franklin County Public Health, shared the reason people become more prone to respiratory diseases during this time of the year. 

“Every year we enter what we call the viral respiratory season, meaning November, maybe through April, where viruses are more prevalent and more people get sick,” Sullivan said.  

Due to the colder temperatures, more people stay inside, which can cause these diseases to spread. Sullivan noted that in the event you do get sick, stick to the basics.   

“If you're sick, don't go to work, don't go to school,” Sullivan said. “If you're coughing, cover your face. Consider wearing a mask again. You know, cough into your sleeve, wash your hands, or stay away from people if you're sick who are high risk.” 

The best way to prevent getting sick is being vaccinated. According to the United Health Foundation, 42% of adults in Ohio reported receiving a flu vaccine from 2023 to 2024, which is below pre-pandemic numbers. Sullivan explained people should know it is imperative to get both the flu and COVID vaccines because they can save your life.   

“What I can say is these diseases, especially flu, are deadly; people die every year,” Sullivan said. “Kids die every year and many of these people are healthy and they didn't get vaccinated. So, we need to get back to vaccinating as much as possible.” 

Sullivan saif if you have taken over the counter anti-viral medication but still feel symptoms like a fever or shortness of breath for several days, contact your doctor.