Respiratory Illness (Common Cold) Long Term Care

The common cold is a respiratory (nose, , lung) illness caused by a . There are many different kinds of that can cause respiratory illness such as Rhino virus, Entero virus, Respiratory Syncytial virus, Human Metapneumo virus, Parainfluenza virus, Corona virus (see reverse side for more information).

Young children, the elderly and people with chronic health conditions are more likely to have complications from respiratory illness. This type of illness spreads easily and can cause outbreaks in crowded places such as long term care homes, hospitals and schools.

Respiratory viruses are spread when:  A person talks, or  A person touches hands, surfaces or objects that have the germs on them and then touches their eyes, nose or mouth.

Signs and Symptoms  , , chills, runny nose, , or stuffy nose  Range from mild to severe, depending on the virus  Usually last anywhere from 3 days to a few weeks depending on the virus

Treatment  Drink plenty of fluids and get a lot of rest.  Some people may need medicine to manage their symptoms. If symptoms are more severe, hospitalization may be required.

Prevent the Spread of Illness  Stay home if you have a cough, fever or sore throat.  Clean your hands before touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

In Long Term Care All residents with respiratory illness are placed on precautions. This means that staff and visitors wear a gown, gloves and facial protection when they are in contact with the resident or items in the resident’s room. All residents with respiratory illness should remain in their rooms. If residents must leave their rooms, they must clean their hands and wear a mask to prevent the spread of illness to others.

CEAC 5312 November 2017 Page 1 of 2 Time of Year Most Commonly Common Cold Viruses Seen

Adeno virus Cough, runny nose, sore throat, fever. Late winter, spring and early summer Can lead to , .

Corona virus Cough, fever, runny nose, sore throat. Fall and winter Usually mild to moderate and of short duration. Can lead to pneumonia.

Entero or Rhino virus Cough, runny nose, sneezing, fever Year round (low grade), hoarse voice, sore throat, , , body aches. Can lead to pneumonia. Human Metapneumo virus Cough, fever, nasal congestion, runny Late winter and early spring nose, sore throat. Can be more severe in the elderly.

Parainfluenza virus Cough, fever (may be high), nasal Type 1—Fall of odd numbered years congestion, runny nose, sore throat, Type 2—Fall hoarse voice. Can be more severe in Type 3—Spring, early summer the elderly. Type 4—Pattern not well known Respiratory syncytial virus Cough, fever, runny nose, sore throat, Fall, winter and spring hoarse voice, nasal congestion. Can lead to pneumonia or .

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