Viral Respiratory Infections

Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) are most commonly caused by viruses. Influenza (“the flu”), COVID-19, and a “cold” are examples of RTIs. Often, they can be managed with supportive care at home, and don’t require a doctor’s visit. Antibiotics will not work for a viral infection, but there are many things that can be done to help symptoms.

The most common symptoms with RTIs are runny nose, cough, sore throat, ear pain, fever/chills, body aches, and fatigue.

Certain medical conditions can increase your risk of developing complications or more severe symptoms. If you have any of these conditions, please call your CVFP health team so they can review your personal risk and make a plan to care for you safely:

• Lung conditions: asthma, COPD, emphysema

• Heart conditions: recent heart attack, valvular heart disease, unstable coronary artery disease or congestive heart failure

• Diabetes

• Immune compromised due to medical conditions, or on immune suppressant medications

If you have any of these symptoms, please call your CVFP health team immediately or seek urgent medical attention through ER or Urgent Care if severe:

• Altered mental state (confusion, disoriented)

• Difficulty breathing or feeling shortness of breath

• Acute chest pain

• Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, no/little tears, less urine)

• Severe headache

• Swelling around your eyes

• Changes in vision

• Weakness/numbness in your body

Clinic Protocols

It’s always our priority to keep staff and patients safe, while also ensuring we align our precautions with the latest evidence and guidance. If you have an in-person appointment at our clinic, please note the following:

• If you develop any illness symptoms before your scheduled appointment, please contact us

• Our reception team will complete an illness screening at check-in