Your Friendly Guide to Cold & Flu Season
posted by Darcie Follon on Friday, December 19, 2025
Cold and flu season is nearly here, and with it comes an increase in respiratory illnesses like influenza, RSV, COVID-19, and the common cold. At Clay County Public Health, we want to share practical guidance to help protect yourself, your loved ones, and our community this season.
Before diving into specifics, we want to emphasize two simple key steps that make a big difference in keeping everyone healthy:
- Get your flu shot - If you haven’t already, now is the perfect time. It’s one of the most effective ways to prevent serious complications and protect those around you.
- Stay home if you’re unwell - Whether it’s a cough, fever, sore throat, or just not feeling yourself, staying home helps prevent spreading illness.
Understanding Common Respiratory Illnesses
Colds, flu, RSV, and COVID-19 often have similar symptoms, which can make it hard to tell them apart. While testing is usually the only way to know exactly which virus is causing an illness, monitoring symptoms closely and seeking care when needed is essential. If a virus goes unchecked, it can lead to complications like pneumonia, especially in young children, older adults, or people with chronic health conditions.
Treatment for these illnesses generally focuses on managing symptoms. For mild cases, such as low-grade fever, body aches, or a mild cough, we recommend:
- Plenty of rest
- Staying hydrated
- Using over-the-counter medications like Tylenol as needed
- Watching for any worsening symptoms
When to Seek Medical Care
If symptoms do not improve within a couple of days or start to get worse, contact your family medical provider. In Spencer, Avera Medical Group Quick Care is ideal for urgent but not emergency needs and is available on weekdays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon.
Go to the Emergency Department or call 911 for serious health issues such as:
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest pain or stroke-like symptoms
- Seizures or severe allergic reactions
- Any other serious emergency
If you’re ever unsure, the Spencer Hospital Emergency Department is available by phone to help determine the safest next step.
Caring for Children with Fevers
Fever can be alarming, especially in children, but it often shows the body is fighting an infection. Encourage fluids, use weight-based Tylenol or Ibuprofen, lightly dress infants and toddlers, and consider a normal-temperature bath if needed. Alternating medications may help with stubborn fevers, and it’s normal for fevers to rise at night.
Managing Coughs and Symptom Care
Coughs are another common concern. Over-the-counter options are available, but we encourage you to consult your doctor or pharmacist to ensure the product is safe and appropriate for your age and health condition. If a cough lingers or worsens, a healthcare provider should evaluate it.
Antibiotics Aren’t Always the Answer
Antibiotics do not work on viruses, which cause most respiratory illnesses. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, and recovery can take 7–14 days. Overusing antibiotics can make them less effective when truly needed. If symptoms persist or worsen, contact your medical provider.
Protecting Yourself and Our Community
The best ways to protect yourself and those around you are simple but highly effective:
- Get vaccinated, especially against the flu
- Stay home when you’re sick
- Prioritize rest and fluids when illness strikes
By taking these steps, we can all play a part in keeping our community healthier during this cold and flu season.
- flu
- publichealth