Goodbye beach days and hello autumn leaves! As the temperature starts to drop and we all start to hang out indoors, there’s a higher risk of germs spreading. COVID-19 cases tend to rise, along with influenza (the flu) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
What are COVID-19, the flu and RSV?
COVID-19, the flu and RSV are all highly contagious illnesses and mainly spread through droplets (e.g. coughing, sneezing, talking, kissing).
COVID-19
COVID-19 is a highly infectious respiratory disease. Most people with COVID-19 have mild symptoms, but some can become severely ill. If you are experiencing any new or worsening symptoms or have tested positive, complete the Ministry of Health’s Provincial Screening Tool and follow the directions provided for self-isolation, self-monitoring and back to school timelines.
The flu
The flu is a contagious viral infection affecting the nose, throat and lungs. Older adults, young children and people with certain chronic health conditions are at higher risk of complications. Flu season in Canada is usually from November to April.
RSV
RSV is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild cold-like symptoms. Most people recover in a week or two, but RSV can be serious and life threatening for babies and older adults.
What are their symptoms?
COVID-19, the flu and RSV may share similar symptoms, including a fever, cough and sneezing. Check out this chart from the National Foundation of Infectious Diseases to learn more.
How do I keep myself safe?
Keep germs at bay
Keep your hands clean and help stop the spread of viruses with good respiratory etiquette.
Don’t be afraid to wear a mask
A well-fitted, high-quality mask can do wonders for helping you stay healthy. York is a mask-friendly environment— let’s all respect each other’s masking choices. Students can get masks for free at Student Counselling, Health & Well-being.
Stay up-to-date on vaccinations
Review current recommendations for routine flu and COVID-19 vaccines through Toronto Public Health and York's COVID-19 information page.
Pro tip: Keep an eye on Student Counselling, Health & Well-being's events calendar to find upcoming vaccine clinics at York.
Prep yourself
You might do everything right, but there’s still a chance that you’ll get sick. If you're feeling unwell, use the Communicable Disease Prevention Guide to help you figure out your next steps.
When in doubt, stay home
If you don’t feel so great, the best thing you can do is stay home and screen yourself for COVID-19 or other illnesses.
- If you test positive for COVID-19, follow the instructions from Toronto Public Health.
- If you find your symptoms are getting worse or need help managing them, check in with your doctor or York resources like the Appletree Medical Centre.
- As you’re starting to feel better, use the provincial COVID-19 self-assessment tool to help you figure out when to go back to class in-person.
Pro Tip: You can find tons of primary care options near the Keele, Glendon and Markham campuses on the Student Health website’s primary care page.
Where can I get more information?
For the latest updates on COVID-19 and other illnesses, visit the Student Health webpage and the Communicable Disease Prevention Guide.
If you have any questions or concerns, reach out to your Public Health Nurses at shealth@yorku.ca or find them in person during an Ask a Nurse tabling session.
This article was updated September 22, 2026