Cold, Flu, and RSV Guide 2025
Stay updated on flu, RSV, and other seasonal illnesses: symptoms, prevention tips, and when to seek care.
As we move into winter, illnesses like flu, RSV, COVID-19, and stomach bugs become more common. Here you’ll find the latest updates, prevention tips, and resources from UR Medicine experts to help protect you and your family.
Expert Advice on Flu, COVID-19, and RSV
Dr. David Dobrzynski, an infectious disease expert with UR Medicine, answers your questions about vaccines, symptoms, and preventative measures.
Feeling Sick? Get Care Now
Not sure what level of care you need? Use our symptom guide to see if a video visit, urgent care, or ER is the best next step.
Virtual Urgent Care
Virtual Urgent Care visits for minor illnesses and injuries
Hours
Monday through Friday: 7 a.m.–7 p.m.
Weekends: 8 a.m.–12 p.m. & 12:30–4:30 p.m.
Holidays: 8 a.m.–12 p.m. & 12:30–4:30 p.m.
Average Wait Time: 5-15 minutes
Urgent Care
In-person, walk-in care for non-emergency injuries and illnesses
Hours
Hours vary by location
Primary Care
Keeping you healthy and providing chronic and acute care
Hours
Monday through Friday: 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
Find a Primary Care Provider
Current patients can schedule directly through MyChart
Check Your Symptoms
| Symptoms | Common Cold | Influenza (Flu) | RSV | COVID-19 | Stomach Bug / Norovirus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fever / chills | Not typical | Has symptom | Not typical | Has symptom | Not typical |
| Cough | Has symptom | Has symptom | Has symptom | Has symptom | Not typical |
| Runny or stuffy nose / congestion | Has symptom | Has symptom | Has symptom | Has symptom | Not typical |
| Sore throat | Has symptom | Has symptom | Has symptom | Has symptom | Not typical |
| Sneezing | Has symptom | Not typical | Has symptom | Not typical | Not typical |
| Fatigue / tiredness | Not typical | Has symptom | Not typical | Has symptom | Has symptom |
| Muscle or body aches | Not typical | Has symptom | Not typical | Has symptom | Not typical |
| Headache | Not typical | Has symptom | Not typical | Has symptom | Has symptom |
| Nausea / vomiting | Not typical | Has symptom | Not typical | Not typical | Has symptom |
| Diarrhea | Not typical | Has symptom | Not typical | Has symptom | Has symptom |
| Abdominal / stomach pain / cramps | Not typical | Not typical | Not typical | Not typical | Has symptom |
Stay Healthy This Season
Vaccines: Latest News and Advice
Frequently Asked Questions About Vaccines
It’s best to get your flu shot before October ends, but getting vaccinated later is still helpful.
Talk to your primary care provider or check local pharmacies such as CVS, Walgreens, or Wegmans.
Yes, but the vaccine lowers risk and usually makes illness milder if you do get sick.
Usually, yes; check with your provider if unsure.
You can get the flu shot at any time in your pregnancy.
Quick Tips from Our Experts
Frequently Asked Questions
Flu, RSV, COVID-19, colds, and stomach bugs like norovirus are circulating most widely this season.
Flu season usually runs from October through May, with most cases happening between December and February.
Visit a doctor or urgent care for severe symptoms (trouble breathing, high fever, dehydration); mild symptoms can often be managed at home or using a video visit.
Wash hands frequently, stay home when sick, cover coughs, clean surfaces, and consider wearing a mask in crowded spaces.
Rest, drink fluids, and avoid preparing food for others; see a doctor if you can’t keep fluids down or symptoms are severe.