Viruses that cause respiratory diseases, including COVID-19, influenza (flu), and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), usually spread more often during the fall and winter. Anyone can get a respiratory virus infection, but some people are at higher risk for serious illness.
Protect Yourself and Others
The Green River District Health Department recommends the following actions to help protect yourself and others during respiratory virus season:
- Stay up to date with vaccines.
- Stay home if you are sick.
- Wash your hands often.
- Cover coughs and sneezes.
- Consider wearing a mask if you are at high risk for serious illness.
Respiratory Virus Immunization Recommendations
Vaccination can help protect against serious illness from respiratory viruses. Recommendations vary based on age, pregnancy, health conditions, and other risk factors.
Immunization recommendations issued by the Kentucky Department for Public Health (KDPH) reflect guidance from trusted medical and professional organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), and the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists (ACOG).
View the 2026–2027 Respiratory Virus Immunization Recommendations (PDF)
Feeling Sick? Know the Symptoms
Flu, COVID-19, RSV, and the common cold can cause similar symptoms. Symptoms alone cannot always tell you which virus is causing an illness.
Respiratory Virus Update for Kentucky
For more information about the current status of respiratory viruses in Kentucky, visit KDPH | Respiratory Viruses