Respiratory syncytial virus is on the increase locally and throughout Colorado, according to the El Paso County Public Health Department. RSV spreads through inhaling or coming into contact with droplets (through mouth, nose or eyes) from an infected person talking, coughing and sneezing.
Most people who catch RSV experience mild symptoms, but it may be more severe in vulnerable people such as infants, young children and older adults. Symptoms can include a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, coughing, fever, decreased appetite and difficulty breathing or wheezing.
The health department is working with schools and child care providers to share information on how to reduce the spread of RSV and other illnesses.
Information: www.elpasocountyhealth.org/rsv-respiratory-syncytial-virus.
The department is also watching influenza trends in the county. Its Immunization Clinic has flu vaccines; to make an appointment or ask about costs, call 719-578-3199. To locate vaccination providers, contact the Pikes Peak United Way’s Referral Hotline at 2-1-1.
COVID-19 tests are still available at The Citadel mall, 750 Citadel Drive East, but the vaccination drive-thru has closed.
Find a useful graphic to compare symptoms at www.elpasocountyhealth.org/newsroom.