Infectious diseases are caused by germs (viruses, bacteria or other pathogenic microbes). Germs that can infect the respiratory system are frequently spread through mucus and saliva when a person coughs, sneezes, talks or laughs.
Infectious respiratory illnesses include influenza, COVID-19, RSV and many more.
Symptoms of respiratory illness include:
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congestion, either in the nasal sinuses or lungs,
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runny nose,
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cough,
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sore throat,
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body aches,
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fatigue.
The best way to prevent the spread of infectious respiratory illness is to:
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cover your cough and sneezes,
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wash your hands often,
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get vaccinated for COVID-19 and flu,
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stay home when you are ill,
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minimize close contact with sick people.