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Respiratory Viruses Hub

Respiratory Viruses

Respiratory Viruses Hub

Respiratory viruses are very active in the fall and winter. The viruses that can sometimes cause more serious illness are influenza (flu), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and SARS-CoV-2 (which causes COVID-19). These viruses spread quickly. When infected, most people will have a mild illness. But some people become seriously ill and can die. Learn more about the spread in your community and steps you can take to protect yourself.

Key Highlights

The amount of combined respiratory illness (Influenza, RSV, and COVID-19) causing people to seek healthcare is moderate.
Across California the percent of positive tests for COVID-19 has reached a high level. Wastewater levels of COVID-19 are also increasing. Californians are seeking healthcare for COVID-19 with increases in emergency room visits. Hospitalization rates remain very low statewide. This means COVID-19 is circulating statewide but causing less severe disease. Young children and older adults continue to have the highest hospitalization rates, but these rates remain lower than this time last September.
CDPH recommends COVID-19 vaccination, especially for people at higher risk (PDF). People 65+ or who are immunocompromised need two doses 6 months apart. Speak with your doctor or visit MyTurn to schedule your appointment. Now is the time to stay up to date on respiratory virus immunizations.
Feeling sick? Visit CDPH's Respiratory Virus Hub to stay informed about prevention, vaccination, testing, and treatment.

What You Need to Know

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What’s happening in your community?

Visit our Respiratory Virus Dashboard to check out what's going on in your region.

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Respiratory Virus Basics

Flu

RSV

COVID-19

Even healthy people can become very sick from a respiratory virus. Respiratory viruses like flu, RSV, and COVID-19 usually cause mild illnesses. They can cause severe complications in some people. Anyone at higher risk for serious illness should get medical help as soon as they start feeling sick.

Symptoms: Respiratory viruses affect your lungs and airways, making it hard to breathe. They can cause symptoms like coughing, body aches, and fever.
Prevention: There are vaccines available for the flu, RSV, and COVID-19. Stay up to date for the best protection.
Protection: To stay healthy, be sure to wash your hands a lot. Wear a mask in crowded spaces. Stay home and rest if you are sick.
Treatment: Get tested quickly if you have symptoms. Start treatment early to prevent serious illness.