As we look forward to warmer days, it’s important to remember that winter illnesses haven’t fully disappeared — and spring brings its own set of health risks. By staying informed and taking simple preventive steps, you can protect yourself and your family throughout the season.
Respiratory illnesses: Flu, RSV, and COVID-19
Respiratory infections remain common this time of year. Flu, RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), and COVID-19 continue to circulate, and all are highly contagious.
Vaccination is your strongest protection. Staying up to date on influenza and COVID-19 vaccines reduces your risk of infection and greatly lowers the chance of severe illness or hospitalization. Individuals who are more susceptible to infection — or who may be around sick individuals — should also consider wearing a mask.
Don’t underestimate handwashing. Frequent handwashing with soap and water is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of respiratory and gastrointestinal illnesses.
RSV deserves particular attention in rural communities. Although RSV activity typically declines by late winter, it can linger in rural areas. In older adults, RSV and other respiratory illnesses may present with atypical symptoms such as dizziness, falls, or confusion, in addition to congestion, fever, or breathing difficulties.
CDC recommendations for RSV vaccination include:
- Adults 74 and older
- Adults 50-74 with conditions that increase RSV risk
- Pregnant women, whose vaccination protects newborns
- Infants, for whom vaccines are also available
Gastrointestinal Illnesses: Norovirus, Traveler’s Diarrhea, and Hepatitis A
Gastrointestinal infections are also widespread during late winter and early spring. Norovirus, in particular, typically reaches peak activity this time of year. Symptoms often include vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramping.
Key prevention strategies include:
- Frequent handwashing with soap and water (more effective than hand sanitizer for GI viruses)
- Disinfecting contaminated surfaces with bleach-based cleaners
For travelers, diarrhea-related illnesses are common. To reduce your risk:
- Drink only bottled, boiled, or carbonated beverages
- Avoid ice
- Choose cooked foods over raw or unpeeled produce
- Maintain strict handwashing habits
Hepatitis A, a liver infection spread through contaminated food or water, often results from inadequate hand hygiene during food preparation. A two-dose childhood vaccine offers strong protection.
Tick- and mosquito-borne illnesses
As temperatures rise — or if you travel to the Caribbean or Mexico — your risk increases for illnesses carried by insects, including Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, and Ehrlichiosis. Early symptoms often mimic viral illnesses: fever, fatigue, and headache.
Protect yourself by:
- Wearing long sleeves, long pants, and a hat
- Tucking pants into socks or boots
- Using insect repellent containing DEET
- Checking for ticks after outdoor activities
If symptoms develop after a tick bite or suspected exposure, seek medical care promptly. Doxycycline is the critical early treatment for Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever.
Measles: A serious but preventable threat
Although the United States achieved measles elimination in 2000, cases are now rising again, including in our region. Measles is extremely contagious — people can spread the virus four days before the rash appears. Early symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes.
Those at highest risk for severe complications include:
- Infants
- Pregnant women
- Immunocompromised individuals
The MMR vaccine remains highly effective, providing 97% immunity with the recommended two doses.
Parents should make sure their children are fully vaccinated, and adults uncertain of their vaccination status should review their records or speak with their healthcare provider.
A final reminder: Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, an important opportunity to discuss screening with your healthcare provider. Screening — whether through colonoscopy or other tests — can detect cancer early, when treatment is most successful. Talk with your doctor about your personal risk factors and when you should have your first or next screening.
Tom Neal, RN, MBA, MHA, is the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) of Highlands-Cashiers Hospital. Neal is a proven leader with more than 30 years of progressive healthcare experience. Prior to his role at Highlands-Cashiers Hospital, he served as Chief Executive Officer of both Berwick Hospital Center in Berwick, Pennsylvania, and Greenbriar Valley Medical Center, Ronceverte, West Virginia, which are each part of Community Health Systems (CHS). Tom has an MBA from the University of Louisville, MHA from the California College of Health Sciences, BSN from Regents College of New York and an ADN from Jefferson Community College.