Virus Season

Cold and flu season is commonly referenced, but don’t forget about other contagious illnesses like RSV, norovirus and measles. Personal hygiene such as washing hands, not sharing food or drink, disinfecting commonly used items such as phones and doorknobs, will help in preventing the spread of these illnesses. For flu and RSV, the best practice is to get vaccinated.  

The flu is caused by the influenza virus and can spread through touch or air droplets from coughing, sneezing or even talking. While good hand hygiene can help in prevention, the best line of defense is getting vaccinated. 

Flu season: vaccines, symptoms and more

FluMist: Who is the nasal spray best for?

Prevent feeling under the weather this winter season

Should you get the flu vaccine?

For more information: CDC

Measles is a highly contagious virus that can cause serious health complications. Some symptoms include high fever, cough, congestion, conjunctivitis and rash. It can also cause ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia and in some cases encephalitis. 

Anyone who is not vaccinated is a risk of illness. Health experts say that one person can infect up to 10 people if they are not protected. The best protection is the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine.

Dr. Peter Hotez, Dean for the National School of Tropical Medicine at BCM, talked with ABC News about the recent Texas outbreak - Amid growing Texas outbreak, how contagious is measles?

Hotez also talked with Yahoo!News - Measles outbreak FAQ: Do I need a vaccine booster? What do I do if I've been exposed? And what are the symptoms?

For more information: CDC

Norovirus is a highly contagious form of acute gastroenteritis causing vomiting and diarrhea. It is spread through direct contact with someone who is sick or with items they have touched while sick. It can spread even after symptoms have ended. 

To help prevent the spread, wash hands with soap and water often, always after using a bathroom, before eating or preparing food and before and after contact with another person. Hand sanitizer is not a substitute for handwashing. 

Norovirus: How it spreads, treatment and prevention

Dr. Robert Atmar, professor of medicine - infectious disease at BCM, talked to the Washington Post about Norovirus - Norovirus: What to know about rising outbreak of the gastrointestinal ailment

Discovery of norovirus replication hubs offers new antiviral targets

For more information: CDC

RSV stands for respiratory syncytial virus infection. While anyone can get RSV, it is more severe in infants and the elderly. It is spread the same way other cold and flu viruses are spread, through touch or exposure. Vaccination against RSV is recommended for those 60 years and older who are at an increased risk of severe complications and all who are older than 75. To protect babies, pregnant women should be vaccinated. If not, babies between 8-19 months can also be vaccinated. 

Yes, adults can get RSV and it can be severe

Protecting you baby from RSV: What every parent needs to know

For more information: CDC 

COVID-19 is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus and leads to respiratory symptoms that can be severe or deadly in those with underlying health conditions. It can also lead to long-term health issues for some which is why prevention is key. Vaccines are available and are the first line of defense. It is also advised to practice good hygiene, such as hand washing, staying away from others who might be sick or isolating yourself when you are sick. 

COVID, flu and RSV: Know the vaccines for these three common respiratory viruses

For more information: CDC