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Health & Wellness

Current Health Advisories

COVID-19

Monkeypox

Health Information

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

A virus that causes infections of the lungs and respiratory tract.

Symptoms

Symptoms in adults are usually mild and can include:

  • Cough
  • Congestion
  • Runny nose
  • Fever
  • Sneezing
  • Headache
  • Sore throat

Symptoms usually appear 4 – 6 days after exposure.

Treatment

Treatment for RSV is management and relief of symptoms.

Over the counter medications for pain and fever reduction
Plenty of fluids
Rest

Most RSV infections clear up within 1 to 2 weeks.

Transmission

Infected persons are usually contagious for 3 to 8 days, and may be contagious 1 to 2 days prior to the manifestation of symptoms.  RSV is spread through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can enter the body through the eyes, nose, or mouth.  Transmission can also occur after touching a contaminated surface and then touching your face before washing your hands.  This is why good hand hygiene in important in stopping the spread of the virus.

Risk Factors

Most cases of RSV in adults are mild, but there are certain factors that can contribute to a more severe infection.

  • Heart or lung disease
  • 65 years or older
  • Compromised immune system

More Information

Influenza

Influenza (Flu)

The Seasonal Flu vaccine is more Important Than Ever. Please Get Immunized! Preventing the flu will save lives!  

Flu Resources

HealthMap Vaccine Finder - A free, online service where users can search for locations that offer immunizations. 

Visit CDC’s website to find out what to do if you get sick with the flu and how to care for someone at home who is sick with the flu. www.cdc.gov

Opiate Overdose

The City of Worcester Division of Public Health is concerned about an increase in deaths related to opiate overdoses in recent days. Preliminary testing indicates that contaminated heroin may be available on the streets. If you witness a suspected drug overdose please call 9-1-1 immediately.

Resources

First Aid Resources

First Aid Manual

National Resources

If you are struggling and want to speak to someone immediately:

  • Crisis Text Line: Text “GO” to 741741 (trained crisis counselors about anything that’s on your mind; free, 24/7, confidential)
  • Disaster Distress Helpline: 1.800.985.5990 LGBTQ Hotline: 1.888.843.4564
  • Domestic Violence Hotline: 1.800.799.7233
  • Sexual Assault Hotline: 1.800.656.4673
  • Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1.800.273.TALK (8255) 
  • Trevor Project LGBTQ Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1.866.488.7386
  • National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1.888.373.7888 or text HELP or INFO to BeFree (233733)
  • Identify a Victim

Disclaimer: This website is not intended as a substitute for proper medical care, only a supplement to it. If you believe you have a medical problem, please contact your family doctor or physician.