Respiratory Diseases
Breathe easy with respiratory disease awareness.
Respiratory diseases are illnesses that affect your airways and lungs. They can make breathing difficult, and lead to other dangerous complications. According to the CDC, respiratory diseases caused at least 1 million hospitalizations and over 70,000 deaths in 2024. It is important to know how to protect from these illnesses to keep you and your family healthy.
Flu
Flu is a common illness caused by the influenza virus. It may cause fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, headaches, and more. The best way to protect yourself is by getting your flu shot each year.
COVID-19
COVID-19 is a very contagious, fast spreading disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It’s symptoms often mirror a cold, flu, or pneumonia. Symptoms are generally mild, although people who are older, immunocompromised, or have previous health conditions may be at greater risk. Staying up to date on COVID-19 immunizations is the best way to protect yourself and others.
RSV
Respiratory syncytial virus, also known as RSV, is a virus that is common in the fall and winter months. Symptoms of RSV are similar to flu and COVID-19, at times making it difficult to differentiate. While symptoms are generally mild for healthy adults, it can be especially dangerous for young children and the elderly. Immunizations are critical for protecting infants from RSV. Depending on the child’s age and vaccination status of the mother, Calloway County Health Department administers the first dose of the RSV vaccine before the child is 6 months old. Another dose at 8-19 months may be recommended.
Pneumococcal Disease
Pneumococcal disease is the term for many infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria. These infections range from pneumonia, meningitis, sinusitis, and more. While symptoms vary based on the type of infection, serious complications include long-term health issues, sepsis, and even death. Getting immunized against pneumococcal disease is the best way to prevent serious infection. Calloway County Health Department administers the first dose of the Pneumococcal conjugate immunization at 2 months and the second dose at 4 months. A third dose at 6 months may not be needed based on the brand of immunization used.
Avian Influenza
H5N1 is a subtype of bird flu found in wild birds and domestic poultry across the U.S. and around the world. It spreads easily among birds. However, in rare cases, it can infect people who have unprotected contact with infected animals or environments. H5N1 infections in humans can cause severe respiratory illness, so awareness and prevention are critical.
Protect your family.
Respiratory disease awareness is an integral part of prevention. If you have a question, concern, or would like to schedule an immunization appointment, don’t hesitate to contact us.
