Episode 7 - Cold, Flu, and RSV Simplified with Dani Hill
About the Episode
Cold, flu, and RSV season can feel overwhelming, especially as families prepare for back-to-school and the start of fall. In Cold, Flu & RSV Season Simplified, host Zenola Smith sits down with Dani Hill, Health Educator at Sentara Health Plans, to break down what you need to know about these common viruses and how to protect your loved ones.
Dani explains how cold, flu, and RSV spread, who is most at risk, and the practical steps families can take to reduce illness, from healthy habits to vaccine considerations to how to avoid getting sick. The conversation also covers when to treat symptoms at home, when to visit urgent care, and when a trip to the ER is necessary.
Whether you are a parent preparing your kids for school, caring for aging relatives, or just trying to stay healthy this season, this episode offers simple, trusted advice to help you make informed choices for your family.
In This Episode
- Understanding what cold, flu, and RSV symptoms are and how they differ
- How these viruses spread and why they spike during back-to-school and fall
- Practical prevention tips for families, including healthy habits and vaccines
- Recognizing symptoms across age groups and when to manage care at home
- Knowing when to call your pediatrician or primary care provider
- When to choose urgent care versus when a trip to the ER is needed
- Guidance for parents of newborns, toddlers, school-aged kids, and vulnerable groups
- Myths and misconceptions about RSV vs cold vs flu
- How to protect high-risk populations and limit the spread within families
- How to avoid getting sick and keeping everyone as healthy as possible
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Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Sentara Health Plans. The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. We strongly encourage you to consult with your primary care physician before taking any actions based on the information provided in this podcast.