In warmer parts of the country like Hickory, NC, respiratory virus season can begin as early as September and stretch well into the winter. With kids back in school, viruses like flu, RSV, and COVID-19 start spreading quickly – especially among young children whose immune systems are still developing. 
 
As a parent, you can take steps now to help protect your child and reduce the risk of serious illness. Being proactive early in the season is especially important in regions like Hickory, NC, where warm temperatures can contribute to longer transmission windows for common viruses. 
 
Why Are Fall Viruses a Concern for Children? 
 
Children are naturally more exposed to viruses this time of year due to close contact at school, daycare, and extracurricular activities. But in warmer climates, the respiratory virus season tends to start earlier and last longer, giving viruses more time to circulate in the community. 
 
Respiratory viruses spread through coughs, sneezes, and surface contact. Since young children may not consistently wash their hands or avoid sharing items like snacks, toys, and classroom supplies, they are often among the first to get sick – and to pass it along to others. 
 
Key Viruses to Watch This Fall 
 
1. Influenza (Flu): The flu virus spreads easily and hits fast. Symptoms include high fever, chills, sore throat, body aches, and fatigue. It can cause serious complications in kids, including pneumonia and dehydration. 
 
2. RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus): This virus can be especially dangerous for infants and toddlers. It starts like a mild cold but can lead to wheezing, labored breathing, and difficulty feeding. In some cases, RSV leads to hospitalization. 
 
3. COVID-19: Though it can be milder in children, COVID may still cause high fevers, cough, and fatigue. Kids with asthma or other chronic conditions may experience more severe symptoms. 
 
Practical Prevention Tips for Parents 
 
Hand Hygiene: Teach kids to wash their hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water, especially after school, before meals, and after coughing or sneezing. Hand sanitizer is a good backup when soap isn’t available. 
 
Cough & Sneeze Etiquette: Encourage kids to cough or sneeze into their elbow or a tissue. Dispose of tissues immediately and wash hands afterward. 
 
Keep Sick Kids Home: If your child has a fever, persistent cough, or other symptoms, keep them home until they’re feeling better – typically at least 24 hours after a fever without medication. 
 
Clean High-Touch Surfaces: Disinfect toys, doorknobs, light switches, and school supplies regularly, especially if someone at home is sick. 
 
Ventilate Indoor Spaces: Virus particles build up more easily in indoor, crowded spaces or those with limited airflow. To reduce the risk of exposure, improve air quality by opening windows when possible or using air purifiers with HEPA filters to improve air circulation and reduce virus buildup indoors. 
 
Talk to Your Pediatrician: Your child’s doctor can advise on flu and COVID-19 vaccines and may recommend RSV protection (like monoclonal antibodies) for infants or high-risk children. Visit the CDC RSV guide or CDC Flu guide to learn more. 
 
When to Call the Doctor 
 
Some viral infections can be managed at home, but contact your pediatrician if your child shows:  

• Trouble breathing or fast breathing  

• Dehydration (dry mouth, sunken eyes, reduced urine)   

• Unusual sleepiness or irritability   

• Loss of appetite or difficulty feeding (especially in infants)  

When in doubt, don’t wait. It’s always okay to ask your pediatrician for guidance or seek immediate care. 

 
Why Early Action Matters in Hickory, NC
 
Because flu and RSV season may begin earlier in warmer areas, prevention should start early too. Many hospitals and pediatric clinics in Hickory, NC see spikes in cases well before colder regions. That makes back-to-school season the perfect time to review prevention habits and check in with your child’s doctor. 
 
Your Partner in Pediatric Health 
 
At Frye Regional Medical Center, we care for children across Hickory, NC and are here to support your family all season long. Whether your child needs care for a virus or just a wellness visit, our pediatricians are ready to help.