Respiratory infections rise as autumn brings influenza and COVID-19

As autumn approaches, there is a notable increase in respiratory infections, including COVID-19, influenza, and the common cold. Medical experts note that while these illnesses share many symptoms, they can often be distinguished by their specific characteristics.

Influenza typically presents with a sudden onset of high fever, headache, muscle pain, fatigue, and a dry cough. In contrast, the common cold is generally characterized by symptoms localized in the upper respiratory tract, such as nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, or a sore throat.

Pharmacists play a critical role in identifying predominant symptoms—such as fever, nasal congestion, or cough—to recommend appropriate treatments and identify warning signs that require medical referral. Various over-the-counter options exist to manage these symptoms, including topical ointments for congestion and throat lozenges containing antiseptics and anesthetics.