While COVID and Influenza rates have been declining, there are currently four main viruses circulating around the community which explains why people are getting sick.
These viruses are adenovirus, human metapneumovirus, parainfluenza and rhinovirus.
According to Dr Norman Swan, they can all cause cold and flu symptoms like fever, runny nose, sneezing, cough and lethargy. Although they do have some differences between them.
Adenovirus can also cause gastroenteritis, conjunctivitis and bronchitis. Sometimes it can even cause symptoms of a bladder infection.
Human metapneumovirus is mostly a mild disease, but it can be severe the first time you get it or if you’re immunocompromised. In addition to cold and flu symptoms, it can cause a wheeze, like respiratory syncytial virus, which is a related to Human metapneumovirus which can also cause pneumonia and ear infections.
Parainfluenza, which tends to be worse in the under-fives and the over-65s, can cause a barking cough and croup.
Rhinovirus is of course the classic common cold virus and there are many different types. They can cause middle ear infections, sinusitis, bronchitis and pneumonia.
Some of precautions people can take if they are experiencing symptoms is to ensure good hand hygiene, practice sensible social distancing, stay away from school, daycare or work, and wear a good mask if you must go out. Of course, people should see their medical professional if symptoms persist.
Further information
Respiratory viruses fact sheet: NSW Health
