Respiratory Diseases
Respiratory viruses like influenza, human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and COVID-19 spread easily in fall and winter.
Although everyone is at risk, the following are groups that are at highest risk:
- Young children and the elderly
- People with compromised immune systems
- People with chronic diseases
How to Protect Yourself & Your Community
Stay up to date with immunizations
- Immunizations are available for measles, COVID-19, flu, and RSV.
- Consult your healthcare provider about which are appropriate for you
Practice good hygiene
- Cover coughs and sneezes!
- Wash or sanitize hands often
- Clean frequently touched surfaces often
Stay home and away from others
- When you have symptoms of a respiratory virus, stay home and away from others.
What is Measles?
Measles is one of the most contagious diseases caused by a virus. It is spread primarily through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, releasing tiny droplets containing the virus. Typical initial symptoms of measles include a high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. Three to five days after those symptoms, a characteristic rash appears. Severe measles can lead to hospitalization and even death.
Both adults and children can get sick with measles, but children under the age of five are more likely to have complications that could lead to hospitalization and even death. The best protection against infection is the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.
If you suspect that you or your child has measles, it’s crucial to call your health care provider before going to the clinic or emergency department.