Winter is well underway and with it comes the rise of respiratory illnesses that can leave you feeling miserable and wondering what exactly is making you sick. In January, three major viruses tend to circulate together: influenza (flu), COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Knowing what to watch for, how they differ, and when to seek care can help you stay healthy and recover faster.
Current Respiratory Virus Activity in January
According to recent national respiratory surveillance data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), respiratory illnesses continue to circulate this winter with influenza activity increasing and RSV activity rising in several regions. Although COVID-19 activity remains relatively low nationally, these viruses remain part of the winter respiratory season.
CDC also predicts that the combined impact of flu, COVID-19, and RSV hospitalizations during the 2025–2026 respiratory season may be similar to past years, with typical peaks occurring in December through February.
How These Viruses Compare
These three viruses share many similarities but also have important differences:
Influenza (Flu)
- Caused by influenza viruses and usually peaks in winter months.
- Symptoms include fever, chills, cough, body aches, headache, fatigue, and sore throat.
- Flu activity has been increasing across the country as winter progresses.
COVID-19
- Caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
- Symptoms can overlap with flu and RSV, including cough, fever, fatigue, and sore throat.
- COVID-19 may cause longer contagious periods and, in some cases, more severe illness.
- COVID-19 levels are currently monitored alongside other respiratory viruses and may still contribute to illness during the season.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
- RSV often causes cold-like symptoms in adults but can be more serious in young children and older adults.
- Symptoms include runny nose, cough, wheezing, and fever.
- RSV activity is rising in parts of the country and contributes to emergency visits, especially for young children.
All three viruses spread through close contact and respiratory droplets, and they can circulate at the same time during peak winter months.
Similar Symptoms, Different Risks
Because flu, COVID-19, and RSV cause many of the same symptoms, it can be hard to tell which virus you have just by how you feel. Common symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, and fatigue.
Testing is the most accurate way to identify the specific virus and guide treatment. This is especially important for people at higher risk of complications, including older adults, infants, and those with weakened immune systems.
Prevention Strategies
The CDC recommends preventive measures to reduce your risk of getting sick or spreading illness:
- Vaccination: Getting your seasonal flu shot and staying up to date with COVID-19 vaccines can significantly reduce the risk of severe illness.
- Good hygiene: Frequent hand washing, covering coughs, and avoiding contact with sick individuals help limit spread.
- Stay home when sick: Avoid attending work, school, or public gatherings if you have symptoms.
These simple steps protect not only you but also vulnerable populations around you.
When to Seek Care at Hometown Urgent Care
If you experience any of the following, consider visiting Hometown Urgent Care for testing and treatment:
- High fever that won’t go down
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Severe cough or chest pain
- Symptoms that are worsening or not improving after several days
- Dehydration or inability to keep fluids down
Our clinics offer walk-in care, on-site testing for flu, COVID-19, and RSV, and fast evaluation to help determine the best care plan for you.
Stay Aware and Stay Healthy This January
Respiratory viruses are part of winter in much of the United States. Knowing what’s circulating, how symptoms overlap, and the importance of prevention can help you navigate this season more confidently.
If you or someone you care for starts feeling sick, don’t wait. Hometown Urgent Care is here with convenient care and testing when you need it.
Walk in or schedule ahead today:
https://myhometownuc.com/locations/