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Seasonal Respiratory Illnesses

This page provides information on current Ministry of Health guidelines for preventing the spread of respiratory illnesses and steps to take if you are experiencing symptoms.

COVID-19 Influenza Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

Please be advised that rapid antigen test (RAT) kits for COVID-19 are no longer available for public distribution at the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit, and they will not be restocked in the future.

Respiratory illness, such as COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are illnesses that affect the lungs and throat. These diseases are spread through the air, either by coughing, sneezing, or face-to-face contact. Although respiratory illnesses can affect individuals of all ages, more severe complications are usually seen in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and those who are immunocompromised.

Common symptoms of respiratory illnesses 

Below is a list of common respiratory illness symptoms. Please note this list is not extensive. If you experience any symptoms of illness, especially if they are severe and/or persistent, please consult a healthcare professional. 

  • Fever, or feeling feverish
  • Cough 
  • Sore throat
  • Runny nose
  • Body/muscle soreness 
  • Fatigue or tiredness 
  • Difficulty breathing 
  • Nausea, vomiting 
  • Diarrhea 

What to do if you are experiencing these symptoms 

If you are sick, stay home to prevent the spread (unless you are seeking testing/medical care). 

According to the Ministry of Health, you should stay home and self-isolate until all the following apply to you:

  1. Your symptoms have been improving for at least 24 hours (48 hours if you have nausea, vomiting, and/or diarrhea)
  2. You do not have a fever 
  3. You have not developed any additional symptoms

If you are unable to stay home, or your symptoms are improving and you are no longer isolated at home, the following additional precautions will provide the community with extra protection against the spread of respiratory illnesses. For 10 days after your symptoms started:

  • Wear a tight-fitting, well-constructed mask in public settings
  • Avoid non-essential visits to people who are considered high-risk of severe complications, such as those in long-term care/retirement homes or those in hospitals

When to go to the ER/urgent care:

If you or your child are experiencing the following symptoms, or worsening of chronic symptoms, call 9-1-1 or visit an emergency room:

  • Respiratory distress 
    • Struggling to breathe, breathing faster than normal
    • Blue/pale skin
    • If diagnosed with asthma, not responding to normal inhalers
  • Chest pain
  • Tired, and/or difficult to wake
  • Infant less than 3 months old and has a fever
  • Dehydration
  • Vomiting, and unable to keep fluids down for 8 hours or more

Downloadable Infographic

We've created a helpful infographic, called Understanding Flu, COVID-19 & RSV and made it available for download.

This infographic explains symptoms, causes and preventative measures to be taken this season.

Infographic illustrating Flu, COVID-19 and RSV including symptoms, causative agents, and preventative measures

For more information contact the Health Unit or speak with your healthcare provider. 

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