Surge in Respiratory Illness

If you are experiencing illnesses that include cough, fever, vomiting, or diarrhea that you’re concerned about,contact your primary clinic or provider, particularly if you have underlying health problems. There are treatments available for both influenza (flu) and COVID infections, but they must be given early to be effective (within the first few days). This is most important for those age 65 or older and with underlying health problems like diabetes, heart and lung disease including asthma, and cancer to name a few.

There are high levels of influenza in our area. Influenza can be dangerous. Most clinics can test and treat influenza. The influenza vaccination also helps reduce the chance of getting sick as well as making the flu less severe. Everyone who has not had an influenza vaccine this fall/winter should consider getting one.

If you have influenza or COVID, you should stay home/away from others, drink plenty of fluids, get rest, and use over the counter acetaminophen (Tylenol) and/or anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen for fever and body aches. Symptoms will usually clear up in 5-7 days if not sooner. Again, if you have concerns about your symptoms, contact your primary care clinic or provider.

We recommend that you consider emergency care if you are experiencing any of the following, or other symptoms that are very severe:

• difficulty breathing
• chest pain that continues when not coughing
• vomiting to the point that fluids can't be kept down
• high fever that can’t be lowered with medication (104 or above)
• confusion or lethargy

If you visit the Hennepin Healthcare Emergency Department, please see new guidelines to limit visitors in the waiting room and at the bedside. If your symptoms don’t require emergency care, we have video visit and E-Visit options available.

Patients with symptoms of respiratory illness should wear a mask unless they’re unable to do so.