Prevent Lingering Symptoms From Respiratory Illnesses This Fall

Dignity Health epidemiologist explains how to help protect the most vulnerable

(Phoenix - Oct. 15, 2025) – In the years following the pandemic, there has been heightened attention to long-COVID or symptoms which can last for months after infection. As we enter into the fall and winter months, an epidemiologist for Dignity Health in Arizona shares that other common illnesses such as influenza (flu) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can also result in lingering symptoms among the most vulnerable – emphasizing the importance of infection prevention this time of year.

“For most people, common flu or RSV symptoms clear up within two weeks,” said Dr. Omar Gonzalez, epidemiologist for Dignity Health in Arizona. “But, for the most vulnerable, these respiratory illnesses can have a lasting impact on their health, similar but less severe to the impact of long-COVID. So, even though you might feel better after a few days, that isn’t the case for everyone and we must do our part to help protect them.”

When the body battles a respiratory virus, the immune system launches an inflammatory response to fight the infection. While this typically resolves for most patients, for others the inflammation can become severe. 

“This inflammation can cause stress on the heart, increasing the risk of suffering a heart attack or stroke in the weeks or months following an infection,” said Dr. Gonzalez. “It can also exhaust the immune system putting some patients at a greater risk of other complications.”

Older adults, young children and the immunocompromised are at the greatest risk of suffering a complication from a respiratory illness. Doctors recommend seeking medical attention if persistent fatigue, cough, shortness of breath, brain fog, muscle weakness or sleep disruptions don’t resolve in 1-2 weeks. 

“The best way to protect yourself is to get vaccinated against respiratory illnesses if you are eligible," said Dr. Gonzalez. “You know the basics - wash your hands and stay home when you're sick. This not only will protect you but can also prevent the spread of viruses which can seriously hurt the health of people in our community.”

To learn more about vaccination guidelines, please visit the Centers for Disease Control. 

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