As the winter season continues, there's an increased chance of infections from COVID-19, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus. But, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention predicted hospitalizations will be similar to or lower than last fall and winter.

Though symptoms of a cold and the flu are similar, key differences set them apart. The two illnesses develop at different rates, with colds often beginning slowly and the flu taking hold more quickly. Colds are typically a mild illness, while the flu can become severe and, in some cases, deadly.

CHICAGO - Health officials warned that rates of respiratory illness are on the rise in Illinois in recent weeks as the holidays approach. The Illinois Department of Public Health said the state’s overall level of illness rose from "low" to "moderate,

Respiratory viruses will likely increase over the holidays as many of us travel and expand our social networks. But we have several tools to help keep us from getting sick.