The flu, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and COVID-19: What do you need to know?
These three diseases have one thing in common: they are caused by viruses that affect the respiratory tract, namely the parts of the body that enable you to breathe, such as the nose, throat and lungs. These viruses are therefore called “respiratory viruses.”
RSV, flu and COVID-19 can cause similar symptoms, such as fever and cough, and make you feel unwell. In some cases, they can lead to serious health problems and hospitalization, particularly among older adults, young children, and people with chronic health conditions.
However, they are caused by different viruses:
How can you protect yourself from respiratory viruses?
Since RSV, the flu and COVID-19 can all cause similar symptoms, it can be difficult to know which virus is making you sick if you are not tested.
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help reduce the risk of getting or spreading a respiratory virus, regardless of the virus:
- Stay home if you’re sick;
- Clean and disinfect the most frequently touched surfaces and objects;
- Wear a mask if you have to go to an indoor space;
- Wash your hands regularly;
- Improve ventilation in indoor spaces by opening windows;
- Get vaccinated against respiratory viruses.
These measures are important because they help protect people at higher risk, such as young children and older adults, from the serious health problems these viruses can cause.
Vaccination is an important way to protect yourself
Here's what you need to know about respiratory virus vaccination options available in New Brunswick:
- The flu vaccine is recommended and available free of charge each year to New Brunswick residents aged 6 months and older;
- The COVID-19 vaccine is recommended and available free of charge each year to New Brunswick residents aged 6 months and older;
- There are options available to protect vulnerable groups against RSV. Some people are at greater risk than others of developing a serious illness caused by RSV, including infants, people aged 60 and older, and people with weakened immune systems.
Protecting Infants against RSV
For infants, protection against RSV is particularly important because RSV infection can be more severe in babies than in adults, especially during the first few months of life. VRS can cause breathing difficulties, and in some cases, hospitalization may be necessary.
- Who is eligible for vaccination? Newborns younger than 8 months can receive the vaccine during their first RSV season, as can certain babies younger than 24 months who are at high risk.
- Can this vaccine be administered with other vaccines? Yes. It can be administered at the same time as the vaccines included in the immunization schedule for children.
- Do you have any questions? Talk to a health care professional to find out if your child is eligible to receive the vaccine.
References
A Parent’s Guide to Vaccination
