Multiple viruses are on the rise this year and they have come to Bowling Green during the coldest days of the year.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are three active respiratory illnesses as of Jan. 17, 2025. These illnesses are seasonal influenza, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
Ben Batey, BGSU’s Chief Well-Being Officer, said over email which viruses students should be aware of in these colder months.
“During the winter months, students should be on the lookout for the common cold, influenza, norovirus and COVID-19,” Batey said.
Norovirus, also on the rise during winter months, is a stomach virus that causes vomiting and diarrhea.
Batey said over email that norovirus is sometimes called the “stomach flu” but it is not related to the flu.
“Norovirus causes acute gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach or intestines,” he said.
He also said while symptoms may only last one to three days, the virus can still spread for longer.
“Many people might immediately think it’s food poisoning from something they ate, but if the symptoms only last a day or two it is most likely that they contracted norovirus,” Batey said.
Seasonal influenza and COVID-19 are other common illnesses that can spread quickly this time of year. Batey explained it can be hard to distinguish between the two illnesses as the symptoms can look similar.
“They both can have symptoms of fever, chills, body aches, cough, headache and fatigue,” he said. “With COVID-19, it appears that symptoms can last longer and some individuals may experience a loss of smell or taste or gastrointestinal symptoms, but testing is really the only way to know which virus a person may have.”
Batey said there are different ways that these viruses can be contracted.
“Respiratory viruses are spread primarily when sick people cough, sneeze or talk, sending infectious agents into the air. If you inhale them, you can get sick,” he said.
Norovirus also spreads when you come into contact with people sick with the illness.
“Norovirus spreads when you have direct contact with infected people, sharing eating utensils or eating food that’s prepared or handled by someone who is sick,” Batey said.
Batey said BGSU has different protocols for those who come down with an illness during the semester.
“BGSU recommends that everyone take steps to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses when they are sick, including following CDC guidelines,” Batey said. “Individuals with respiratory virus symptoms may work with their instructors, supervisors and advisors on reasonable accommodations to avoid further spreading illness, which could include staying home and away from others.”
Batey said students can prevent getting a virus by maintaining good hygiene like washing their hands often, avoiding touching their eyes, nose and mouth, working out, staying hydrated and eating a healthy diet. Wearing a mask is also an option when in crowded areas.
“Individuals can also choose to wear an N-95 mask in crowded areas during winter respiratory illness season,” Batey said.
Students should remain cautious of illness and take the proper precautions.
“Making sure your immune system is as strong as it can be during the winter months is also important,” Batey said.
