Coughs, colds, influenza, COVID-19 and RSV are common during respiratory virus season. Most mild infections improve with time and home care, but some symptoms need medical attention. When symptoms are mild, caring for yourself at home helps keep appointments available for patients who need medical assessment. Please note, the below information is for adults only.

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Home care is usually appropriate when:

• You have a runny or stuffy nose, mild sore throat or cough.

• You are breathing comfortably, drinking enough and gradually improving.

• You have a lingering cough but otherwise feel better. Post-viral coughs can last 4-6 weeks after a viral infection but should improve day by day.

• Yellow or green mucus alone does not mean you need antibiotics. Antibiotics do not treat viruses or speed recovery from a typical cold.

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Contact the office to arrange an assessment if:

• You feel short of breath or have chest pain – if severe, please call 911 and go to the emergency department

• Symptoms are worsening or improve and then get worse again.

• You have a fever (38°C or higher) lasting more than 3 days, or a fever that returns after going away.

• You develop significant ear pain or sinus pain

• Symptoms are not starting to improve after about 7–10 days

• You are immunocompromised or at higher risk of complications (i.e. pregnancy) as treatment for influenza or COVID-19 may be appropriate and should be started early

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For Children, there are plenty of great resources on CHEO website linked below: 

• Fever

• Coughs and Colds

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