Practice safe habits with cases of common cold on the rise, doctors, pharmacists warn

Tuesday, September 30, 2025
RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- With cases of the common cold on the rise this year, medical experts say practice safe habits to stay healthy.

Data from the CDC indicates that cases of the common cold are reaching levels that haven't been seen in a few years.

Unfortunately, those living in the Triangle are not spared.

Karrie Mathues says her kids are telling her about more of their classmates getting sick.

"Mainly allergies. I hear a lot about upper respiratory infections, you know, some headaches and sinus headaches and that kind of thing is starting to go around," she said.



Jonathan Harward is a pharmacist at Josef's Pharmacy in Raleigh. He says they're also seeing more people coming in, not feeling the best.

"A lot of cough, runny nose, sneezing, you know, some fever," he said.

ABC News Medical Contributor Dr. Alok Patel says this is happening nationwide.

"We're seeing really high rates right now of the common cold, including viruses that are not often talked about, like rhinovirus and enterovirus, the highest levels, in fact, in about 3 years," he said.

Medical experts say to keep an eye out for your symptoms and get tested to rule out major illnesses like COVID-19 or RSV.



"Covering your mouth if you're coughing or sneezing, considering wearing a mask if you have to go out in public, and staying home while you still have symptoms," said Patel.

Harward said it's also important to monitor symptoms and know when to seek additional care.

"If you start running a fever, you know, definitely go see your doctor or go to the urgent care," he said.

Mathues says don't forget other simple steps to stay healthy.

"I'm always there with hand sanitizer in their pockets and telling them to wash their hands," she said.



Another way to stay healthy - get the flu shot, especially if you're over 65.

With flu season right around the corner, medical experts say to get the shot before Halloween because it takes at least two weeks for the body to build up antibodies after getting the shot.
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