What You Need to Know About Respiratory Viruses in 2025

The COVID pandemic of 2020 affected the whole world and impacted many people’s lives, some are still struggling with the lasting effects of this pandemic. As a society, we learned to be more aware of upcoming viruses, to pay attention to initial respiratory symptoms, and to follow hygienic preventive measures that prevent disease from spreading.

Respiratory viruses can affect people of all ages but pose the greatest risk to young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. They are a public health concern, particularly during the fall and winter seasons. However, according to the CDC, as of February 14, 2025, the amount of acute respiratory illness causing people to seek healthcare is at a high level.

What Are the Most Common Respiratory Viruses of 2025?

Each year, these respiratory viruses contribute to millions of illnesses and thousands of hospitalizations and deaths in the United States alone. Among the common respiratory viruses are:

• COVID-19
• Influenza (flu)
• Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
• Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) 

These viruses have gained heightened attention due to their widespread impact on health.

The Relevance of Virus Variants 

A virus variant refers to a virus that over time changes its structure to survive in new environments. This means that, it can become resistant to old vaccines, to commonly used antivirals and seasons (such as winter). Any change to the viral genetic sequence during this process is known as a mutation, and viruses with new mutations are sometimes called variants. 

Virus variants like BA.2.86, identified in 2023, have raised alarms about potential ways they evade the immune system and cause significant changes in the spike protein. Yet, vaccines continue to demonstrate efficacy in providing protection against severe disease.

How are Respiratory Viruses Transmitted?

Respiratory viruses spread mainly through droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. The virus can also be transmitted by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the nose, mouth, or eyes. Close contact with infected individuals increases the risk of transmission, making proper hygiene essential in preventing the spread.

What are the Classic Symptoms of a Respiratory Virus?

Respiratory virus symptoms range from mild to severe and often resemble those of the common cold or flu:

• Runny nose
• Cough
• Nasal congestion
• Sore throat
• Fever 

Depending on the virus variant there are other lesser-known symptoms that occur outside the respiratory system, for example:

• In the gastrointestinal tract: (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)
• In the central nervous system: confusion, lethargy

When to Seek Medical Attention

Severe symptoms are more common in people with a weak immune system, chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma, or those who have never received vaccination for respiratory viruses. These symptoms often require hospitalization or close monitoring by health professionals. 

• Difficulty breathing
• Wheezing
• Persistent high fever
• Extreme fatigue
• Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, reduced urination)
• Pneumonia
• Bluish skin (indicating low oxygen levels in blood)

How is a Respiratory Virus Diagnosed?

A respiratory virus is diagnosed through clinical evaluation and laboratory tests. Specialized tests such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays or antigen detection can confirm the presence of the specific type of virus (COVID, RSV, Influenza). There are also home kits to detect the virus but they are less specific and can give false results. 

What are Treatments for Respiratory Virus?

Currently, there is no specific medication to treat HMPV. Management focuses on relieving symptoms and supporting the immune system.

Home Care and Symptom Management

• Fever and pain relief: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) can help reduce fever and alleviate discomfort. Aspirin should be avoided in children. Using room-temperature moist towels and not using heavy covers can help regulate the body temperature. Showering with very hot or cold water can affect temperature regulation, it’s best to use lukewarm water when a person has a fever and never leave them unattended if using a bathtub. 
• Hydration: Drinking abundant fluids such as water, diluted fruit juices, or clear soups prevents dehydration. Infants should continue breastfeeding or formula feeding. When the body has high temperatures, the water loss through skin is increased and dehydration is common. 
• Adequate nutrition: it’s important to keep eating nutrient-dense foods, although sometimes, the body does not express hunger. This will help boost the immune system and recover faster. 
• Rest: Adequate rest supports the body’s natural recovery process.

Medical Treatment

Some cases may require medical professional aid, especially those with severe symptoms like those mentioned above.

• Oxygen therapy: in cases of respiratory distress.
• Intravenous (IV) fluids: Used for patients unable to maintain hydration.
• Bronchodilators and nebulizations: May be prescribed for wheezing or underlying asthma.

Antibiotics are not effective against HMPV itself because it is a virus, but they may be needed if a bacterial infection develops. To read more about infection prevention for blood cancers click here. 

Can a Respiratory Virus Be Prevented?

While there is no vaccine for HMPV yet, preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of infection. Some of these practices lingered from the COVID pandemic and are simple habits that can prevent catching the virus in crowded places or big gatherings. 

• Good hygiene practices include washing your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, and avoiding touching your face, especially the nose, mouth, and eyes.
• Minimizing exposure by staying home when sick to prevent spreading the virus, maintaining safe distance in crowded places and avoid close contact with sick people. 
• Wearing masks in healthcare settings or during flu-season can reduce transmission risks.

The Importance of Vaccination 

Although not all viruses have vaccines, COVID, influenza, and RSV vaccines remain the cornerstone of preventing severe viral infections. The CDC recommends that everyone aged six months and older receive the flu vaccine annually. Emphasizing early vaccination, ideally in September and October, to maximize effectiveness during peak flu season. A new RSV vaccine has been introduced, targeting older adults and those at higher risk for severe disease. 

We have a comprehensive guide to the most recent vaccination guidelines here. 

What Are there Long-Term Manifestations of Respiratory Viruses? 

When recovering from a respiratory virus, it is important to consider the long-term implications it could have. Chronic lung damage and respiratory issues may persist long after the acute phase of infection, especially in those who experience severe symptoms. In mild cases, the cough is the most persistent symptom, which could last up to 4 weeks after the infection has ceased. To address these concerns, having a close engagement with your healthcare team about the symptoms and recovery process, ensure you receive comprehensive care tailored to your needs.

After recovering from COVID, many people struggled to regain their health, which was called long-COVID. Many experienced brain fog, heart palpitations, extreme tiredness, chronic cough, and changes in taste or smell. 

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Sources: 

• Respiratory Illnesses Data Channel
• Toward a deeper understanding of long COVID
• Background for CDC's Updated Respiratory Virus Guidance
• Updated Guidance for Prevention, Management of Acute Respiratory Infections