As the school year kicks off, classrooms are buzzing—and not just with excitement. The Back to School season often brings a spike in common illnesses. From runny noses to more serious viruses, staying informed can help protect your child and give you peace of mind.
Here’s what’s currently going around, what symptoms to look for, and when to seek medical care.
What Illnesses Are Spreading Right Now?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), here’s a quick snapshot of current 2025 trends:
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COVID‑19: Cases are rising nationwide, especially in school-age children and teens.
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Whooping Cough (Pertussis): Over 7,000 cases have already been reported this year—more than double the number at this time last year.
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Measles: Outbreaks are increasing, with the highest number of cases seen since 1992.
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Flu & RSV: Currently low but expected to increase as we move further into the fall season.
So while flu and RSV aren’t yet peaking, now is a good time to prepare for what’s ahead.
Symptoms to Watch For in Fall 2025
Knowing what to look for can help you act early and avoid spreading illness to others. Below are key symptoms tied to current infections:
| Illness | Common Symptoms |
|---|---|
| COVID‑19 | Fever, cough, congestion, fatigue, sore throat, body aches |
| Whooping Cough | Cold-like symptoms, then severe coughing fits with a “whoop” sound |
| Measles | High fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, rash |
| Flu | Sudden fever, chills, muscle aches, fatigue, cough |
| RSV | Wheezing, cough, fast breathing, poor feeding (especially in infants) |
| Common Cold | Runny nose, mild cough, sneezing, sore throat |
| Stomach Bugs | Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps |
How to Help Prevent Sickness This Season
Staying ahead of school-year sniffles doesn’t have to be complicated. A few everyday habits can make a big difference in keeping your family healthy—and help your child avoid those missed days of learning and fun.
First, make sure your child is up to date on recommended vaccines. That includes protection against COVID‑19, influenza, measles (MMR), whooping cough (DTaP or Tdap), and RSV, which is now available for certain age groups. Your pediatrician can help you understand what’s right for your child’s age and health history.
Next, focus on reinforcing healthy habits at home. Kids should wash their hands frequently, especially before meals and after using the restroom. Remind them to cover their coughs and sneezes, and try to keep shared surfaces—like doorknobs, remotes, and phones—clean and disinfected. And if your child isn’t feeling well, it’s best to let them rest at home rather than risk spreading illness to others.
Finally, support your child’s immune system by helping them build strong daily routines. That means getting enough sleep, eating balanced meals, staying hydrated, and spending time outdoors for fresh air and movement. These simple foundations can go a long way in helping your family stay well throughout the school year.
When Should You See a Doctor or Use Virtual Urgent Care?
You know your child best. If their symptoms seem more than mild, trust your instincts and get them evaluated. Seek care if you notice:
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Difficulty breathing or wheezing
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Persistent high fever
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Severe coughing fits or vomiting
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Rash with fever
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Lethargy or confusion
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Dehydration (dry lips, no tears when crying, dizziness)
OneShare Health Members can access Virtual Urgent Care, available 24/7 at no additional cost per visit. It’s a fast, convenient first step for common illnesses and symptoms. Not a Member yet? Start Here.
Make the Most of Your OneShare Health Membership
As a OneShare Health Member, you have access to helpful tools that make it easier to manage unexpected illnesses:
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Virtual Urgent Care: Connect with a provider anytime, from anywhere
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Prescription Discounts: Through Rx Valet, Clever Rx, and WellCard Savings
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Mental Health Services: Chat with Bella the chatbot or connect with a licensed provider
If your child isn’t feeling well, these services can help you take the next step—without the wait or hassle.
Need Help Finding the Right Care?
Log in to your Member Portal at OneShareHealth.com/members or call us at (855) 699‑1274. Our team is here to support your family’s health and help you get the most from your Program.
