From Colds to COVID: When To Seek Care for Winter Illnesses

Tens of thousands of Ohioans are hospitalized each year due to respiratory illnesses such as the flu, COVID-19 and pneumonia. With the winter months bringing an increase in these illnesses, it’s important to know when to seek care and how to protect yourself and your family. 

At ProMedica Toledo Hospital Emergency and Urgent Care, we’re here to help you navigate the most common winter illnesses and provide the care you need under one roof. 

The Common Cold 

The common cold, a frequent visitor during the winter season, is a viral infection that affects the nose and throat. While usually harmless, it can still leave you feeling drained. Adults in Ohio typically experience two to three colds a year, while young children may have even more frequent episodes. 

Symptoms such as a runny nose, sore throat, sneezing and mild fatigue usually clear up within a week. However, adults with a fever higher than 101.3 degrees lasting more than three days, or those with shortness of breath or a worsening cough, should see a doctor. For children, especially newborns up to 12 weeks old, even a slight fever of 100.4 degrees requires immediate medical attention. 

Follow these tips to help prevent a cold:  

• Wash your hands often with soap and water. 

• Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 

• Cover your coughs and sneezes. 

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick. 

• Maintain a healthy diet and get plenty of rest. 

Bronchitis 

Bronchitis, which inflames the bronchial tubes, is another concern during the winter months. This condition can cause a persistent cough, chest discomfort and fatigue. While acute bronchitis often improves within a week, a lingering cough can last for weeks. 

Seek medical care if you experience a fever over 100.4 degrees, blood in your mucus or severe shortness of breath. Smokers and individuals with underlying health conditions are at higher risk of complications, making early intervention crucial. 

• Follow these tips to help prevent bronchitis: Get an annual flu shot. 

• Wash hands frequently. 

• Avoid close contact with people who have viral infections. 

• Steer clear of cigarette smoke. 

Flu (Influenza) and COVID-19 

Influenza is a respiratory infection that affects the nose, throat and lungs. Severe outcomes are most common in young children under two, adults over 65 and individuals who are pregnant, obese or have weakened immune systems. Symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches and fatigue. 

In Ohio, flu activity has been moderate, with influenza A and B positivity rates below 1 percent as of late September 2025. COVID-19, however, continues to pose a significant risk, particularly for older adults and those with underlying conditions. COVID-19 symptoms, such as loss of taste or smell and persistent shortness of breath, can overlap with the flu, making testing essential for an accurate diagnosis. 

Updated COVID-19 vaccine guidelines now recommend vaccination for seniors 65 and older and those with underlying health conditions. Staying vigilant with frequent handwashing and disinfecting high-touch surfaces remains key to protecting yourself and your community. 

• Follow these tips to help prevent the flu and COVID-19: Get vaccinated for both the flu and COVID-19. 

• Wash hands regularly. 

• Disinfect surfaces frequently. 

• Avoid close contact with sick individuals. 

For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit ProMedica Toledo Hospital Emergency and Urgent Care. Staff are ER-trained to determine patient conditions, and patients only pay for the level of service they receive - either ER or urgent care. The emergency department is open 24/7 and the urgent care clinic is open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. You don't need an appointment. All walk-ins are welcome. 

ProMedica Toledo Hospital Emergency and Urgent Care is located at 1075 Medical Center Parkway, Maumee, Ohio 43537. Stay safe and healthy this winter season.