Local Wisdom
Staying Ahead of This Season’s Triple Threat:
Tips from a Houston Doctor
by Dr. Mark Netoskie, Cigna Healthcare
With fall already here and winter not far behind, Houstonians face the annual “triple threat” of influenza (flu), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and COVID-19. All three viruses are now active, so protecting yourself is crucial. Vaccines and healthy habits like handwashing remain critical safeguards. While they don’t always prevent infection, vaccines, in particular, will reduce the severity of these diseases and prevent further complications like pneumonia, secondary infections—even death—while also reducing transmission to others.
Most fall and winter respiratory illnesses are viral and are best treated by relieving symptoms with over-the-counter medications. But sometimes these illnesses are bacterial and need medical attention, so it’s essential to recognize when—and how—you might seek care.
UNDERSTANDING THE
DIFFERENCES
Flu: This is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat and lungs. Symptoms include fever, body aches, headaches and cough, and it usually lasts one to two weeks. Outbreaks typically occur in late fall and winter. Getting a yearly flu shot is the first and most important step in protecting yourself against the flu and its potentially serious complications, which can include hospitalization and death.
RSV: This is a common respiratory virus that usually causes cold-like symptoms. However, it can be especially serious for older adults, even fatal. Symptoms include runny nose, decreased appetite, coughing, sneezing, fever and wheezing. Mild cases of RSV usually go away on their own in a week or two, but more severe cases may require hospitalization. The CDC recommends that adults 60 and older get an RSV vaccine.
COVID-19: This virus can produce mild to severe symptoms, including fever, body aches and respiratory issues. While many cases are mild, some people may have severe complications requiring hospitalization or experience long-lasting health issues, including fatigue, chest pain or mental health challenges. You should get vaccinated regardless of whether you’ve had COVID-19.
MAKING CARE MORE
ACCESSIBLE
Taking an at-home COVID-19 or flu test when you have symptoms can be a good first step to determine what you might have. But sometimes you need to see a doctor. It can be tough for many people—especially busy parents, hourly workers and rural residents—to get timely care when they are sick. Fortunately, options have emerged to make it easier.
Virtual visits – in which patients can speak with a doctor via video—are a good option for those who can’t see a doctor right away. Virtual care became popular during the pandemic, and innovations, like the new E-Treatment option from MDLIVE, can be an even more convenient way to seek urgent care for those with seasonal illnesses.
Cigna Healthcare customers with access to MDLIVE can fill out a dynamic questionnaire that is reviewed by a board-certified doctor and receive a treatment plan and prescription, if medically appropriate, without the need for a live video or phone appointment. Many provider groups have also expanded their urgent care locations to make it more convenient for customers. Check with your health insurance for your virtual and urgent care options.
PREVENTION
If you want to avoid the doctor altogether, vaccines are a good safeguard. There are also basic things you can do to protect yourself and others, including:
• Washing your hands often with soap and water
• Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze
• Staying hydrated
• Getting plenty of rest
• Eating a balanced diet to boost immunity
• Opening windows to let air circulate
• Staying home when sick
As we move through the season, there is much you can do to take control of your health. Getting vaccinated and following some simple habits will be your strongest protection against the annual triple threat.
Dr. Mark Netoskie, M.D., MBA, FAAP, is the Central Regional Medical Executive at CIGNA Healthcare, based in Houston, Texas. With over two decades in the health benefits industry and prior leadership in pediatric medicine, Dr. Netoskie is a board-certified pediatrician focused on advancing population health. He collaborates with clinical organizations to implement value-based care and develop innovative health solutions tailored to client needs, impacting total medical costs, health navigation, and employee retention.