In South Texas, due to our subtropical climate, viral respiratory illness typically begins rising in September to October, earlier than in other parts of the U.S. The most common culprits for a cold include: Rhinoviruses (30–50%), Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and Adenovirus.
When to see your doctor:
- Children should seek medical care for increased work of breathing, poor feeding or inability to drink, lethargy, drowsiness, bluish discoloration of lips/skin or signs of dehydration: no tears, dry mouth, decreased wet diapers.
- Adults should seek medical care for difficulty breathing or worsening shortness of breath, persistent or worsening fever beyond 3–5 days, or fever that returns after initial improvement. It is important to also be aware of the “second wave,” when symptoms worsen after initial improvement, inability to keep fluids down leading to dehydration (dizziness, decreased urination), and persistent cough beyond 3 weeks.
When to return to school or work:
- A general guideline is staying home until at least 24 hours after fever resolves without using medications and symptoms are improving. Keep in mind a true fever is a temperature of 100.4 F or higher. If possible, continue isolation and wear a mask around others for an additional 5-7 days as cold symptoms last for a median of 7–10 days, with 90% resolution at 15 days.
At Salveo Direct Care, we’re committed to helping our patients stay healthy and recover quickly. We offer same-day visits for acute illness and try to ensure our patients are prepared for cold and flu season. Schedule a meet and greet with us today!
– Sabina Lalani, D.O.
