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With COVID-19 now on the scene, “flu season” has taken on a new name. You can still expect similar timing from previous years—when more people gather in closer proximity (due to cold weather and schools in session), germs have more opportunities to bounce from person to person. Respiratory season begins in October and peaks between December and February, according to the CDC.
Here are the CDC’s immunization recommendations for the 2023 season:
The CDC is expecting good efficacy from the 2023 flu shot and COVID-19 boosters. Each year, scientists formulate immunizations to protect against the strains that are most likely to be dominant later in the year. They are not a perfect match but still offer adequate protection against severe illness according to the CDC. Arming yourself with the updated flu shot and COVID-19 booster (and RSV immunization if applicable) is the best way to protect your health and prevent another “triple-demic”.
Symptoms of RSV, influenza, and COVID-19 can be similar. Our symptom tracker (based on information from the Mayo Clinic) can help guide you this season.
Symptom | Flu | COVID-19 | RSV | Cold |
---|---|---|---|---|
How it starts | Sudden | Slow onset | Slow onset | Slow onset |
Headache | ✔ | ✔ | — | — |
Fever | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | — |
Body aches & chills | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | — |
Fatigue | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | — |
Runny/stuffy nose | — | — | ✔ | ✔ |
Sneezing | — | — | — | ✔ |
Sore throat | — | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Cough | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | — |
Shortness of breath | — | ✔ | ✔ | — |
Many viruses circulate every winter—if you have risk factors for severe illness or are experiencing severe symptoms, the Mayo Clinic recommends seeing a healthcare provider as soon as possible.
The flu, COVID-19, and RSV all spread by coming into contact with tiny droplets that are expelled when someone with the virus coughs, sneezes, or talks. Getting immunized is only your first step in protecting your health. Here are more ways the CDC lists are effective in protecting yourself from falling ill this winter.
Use soap and warm water to wash hands for at least 20 seconds, especially after bathroom use, before eating, and after sneezing or coughing.
Avoid close contact with sick individuals. Staying at least six feet away from those who are unwell can significantly reduce your risk of infection.
Whenever possible, stay home when you are sick. If you must go out, the CDC recommends wearing a high-quality mask that covers your nose and mouth.
Refrain from touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, as these areas are entry points for viruses. Being conscious of this can prevent respiratory infections.
Medically reviewed by
Dr. Rob Rohatsch, MD
Updated on Sep 23, 2024
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