Respiratory illnesses are rising in many communities, and people are trying to make sense of what they’re seeing around them. A clearer look at the viruses circulating this season can help us move through it with a bit more confidence, so let’s take a closer look together.
COVID-19
COVID-19 continues to circulate during the 2025-2026 respiratory virus season. According to the CDC’s Respiratory Illness Data Channel, national COVID activity is low but increasing, and the virus remains one of the primary contributors to winter respiratory illness alongside influenza and RSV.
Clinicians are also noting shifts in how COVID is showing up this season. In an interview with Parade, infectious disease experts reported that recent variants are causing more upper respiratory, cold-like symptoms rather than lower-respiratory pneumonia that was more common early in the pandemic.
COVID-19 Symptoms
The CDC notes that people with COVID-19 can experience a wide range of symptoms, from mild to severe. Symptoms may appear 2 to 14 days after exposure and can include:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath and difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- New loss of taste or smell
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
COVID-19 Vaccination
COVID-19 can still be serious, especially for older adults, people with underlying health conditions, and those who are immunocompromised. The CDC recommends a 2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccine for people ages 6 months and older, based on individual decision-making, and emphasizes that vaccination is particularly important for adults 65 and older and others at higher risk for severe disease.
Influenza (Flu)
Seasonal influenza activity remains elevated across the United States and continues to rise, according to the CDC’s latest surveillance data. The 2025-2026 flu season is shaping up to be rather severe, with widespread illness and rising hospitalizations reported across the country. Many states are reporting high or very high flu activity, and several regions are seeing sharp increases in emergency department visits and flu-related hospital stays.
The World Health Organization (WHO) notes that influenza A (H3N2) is one of the major strains circulating globally this season, and it has been associated with increased illness in several regions.
Flu Symptoms
Yale Medicine notes that flu symptoms can range from mild to severe and often begin suddenly. Common symptoms include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
Flu Vaccination
The CDC recommends a flu vaccine for everyone 6 months and older, with extra importance for adults 65+, young children, pregnant people, and those with underlying conditions. For 2025-2026, the Food and Drug Administration and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices introduced updates to flu vaccine options, including expanded age approvals.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
RSV is a common respiratory virus that can affect people of all ages, but it tends to cause the most severe illness in infants, young children, and older adults. According to the CDC, RSV activity is elevated in many parts of the country, with emergency department visits and hospitalizations increasing among children ages 0-4 this season.
RSV Symptoms
Symptoms usually appear four to six days after infection and may include:
- Runny nose
- Decrease in appetite
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Fever
- Wheezing
RSV Vaccination
For the 2025-2026 season, the CDC recommends RSV vaccination for adults 75 and older, adults 50-74 at increased risk, and protection for infants through maternal vaccination or a one-time RSV monoclonal antibody dose before their first RSV season.
Protecting Yourself and Others
The symptoms of these viruses can overlap; to be accurately diagnosed, concerned patients should consult their medical professionals for laboratory tests. In addition to getting vaccinated, people can do a few things to protect themselves, such as:
- Wearing a well-fitting mask in higher-risk situations to reduce the spread of respiratory droplets.
- Utilizing air filters and promoting air circulation by opening windows.
- Cleaning frequently touched surfaces to reduce the spread of germs.
- Washing hands regularly with soap and water.
When trying to prevent the onset of respiratory diseases, the quality of being proactive should not be undervalued. Using one’s discernment is a priceless tool, as it is imperative to stay away from people who are sick; close proximity to illnesses can significantly increase the chances of exposure to a respiratory virus.
Resources:
Respiratory Illnesses Data Channel | Respiratory Illnesses | CDC
Most Common COVID-19 Symptoms Right Now (January 2026) – Parade
Symptoms of COVID-19 | COVID-19 | CDC
Staying Up to Date with COVID-19 Vaccines | Covid | CDC
New influenza variant is surging, but vaccination still our best bet: WHO | UN News
Influenza (Flu) | Fact Sheets | Yale Medicine
Respiratory Illnesses Data Channel | Respiratory Illnesses | CDC
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