Respiratory illnesses are surging across Illinois this winter, with flu, COVID-19, and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) all circulating at elevated levels. For seniors—especially those with chronic health conditions—these infections pose serious risks, including hospitalization, complications, and even life-threatening illness.

At Alpine Fireside Health Center in Rockford, we’re seeing increased concern from families about protecting their loved ones during this particularly challenging respiratory illness season. The good news? There are proven, effective strategies to reduce risk and keep seniors safe.

This guide provides Rockford-area families with practical, actionable steps to protect seniors from flu, COVID-19, and other respiratory infections this winter.

Why Seniors Face Higher Risks from Respiratory Illnesses

Understanding why seniors are more vulnerable to flu and COVID-19 helps families take appropriate precautions.

Age-Related Immune Changes

As we age, our immune system naturally weakens—a process called immunosenescence. This means:

• Slower response to infections
• Reduced vaccine effectiveness (though vaccines still provide crucial protection)
• Longer recovery times
• Higher risk of secondary infections like pneumonia

Chronic Health Conditions Increase Severity

Many seniors have underlying conditions that make respiratory infections more dangerous:

• Heart disease: Flu and COVID-19 strain the cardiovascular system
• Diabetes: Infections are harder to control with elevated blood sugar
• COPD or asthma: Respiratory infections directly affect already-compromised lungs
• Kidney disease: Increases complication risks
• Dementia: May not recognize symptoms or communicate discomfort; increased aspiration risk

Higher Hospitalization and Mortality Rates

According to the CDC, adults 65 and older account for the majority of flu-related hospitalizations and deaths each year. Similarly, COVID-19 remains most severe in older adults, even with widespread vaccination and immunity.

Vaccination: The Single Most Important Protection

Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent severe illness from flu and COVID-19 in seniors.

Flu Vaccination for Seniors

High-dose flu vaccines are specifically designed for adults 65 and older:

• Fluzone High-Dose: Contains 4 times the antigen of standard flu shots
• Flublok: Recombinant vaccine with 3 times the antigen
• Fluad: Contains an adjuvant to boost immune response

These senior-specific vaccines generate stronger immune responses than standard flu shots and provide better protection for older adults.

COVID-19 Vaccination for Seniors

Updated COVID-19 vaccines for 2025-2026 target currently circulating variants:

• All seniors should receive the updated COVID-19 vaccine
• Those 65+ may be eligible for an additional dose (check with healthcare provider)
• Can be given at the same time as flu vaccine
• Provides protection against severe illness, hospitalization, and death

RSV Vaccination for Seniors

New RSV vaccines are now available for adults 60 and older:

• Single-dose protection against respiratory syncytial virus
• Particularly important for those with heart or lung conditions
• Discuss with your Rockford healthcare provider whether RSV vaccine is recommended

Where to Get Vaccinated in Rockford

Vaccination is widely available throughout Rockford:

• Primary care physicians
• Pharmacies (Walgreens, CVS, Walmart, Schnucks)
• Winnebago County Health Department
• UW Health SwedishAmerican and OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center
• Community vaccination clinics

Most insurance plans, including Medicare Part B, cover flu and COVID-19 vaccines at no cost.

Hand Hygiene and Respiratory Etiquette

Simple hygiene practices significantly reduce transmission of respiratory illnesses.

Proper Handwashing Technique

When to wash hands:

• Before eating or preparing food
• After using the bathroom
• After coughing, sneezing, or blowing nose
• After touching surfaces in public places
• Before and after caring for someone who is sick

How to wash hands effectively:

1. Wet hands with clean, running water
2. Apply soap and lather thoroughly
3. Scrub for at least 20 seconds (hum “Happy Birthday” twice)
4. Rinse under running water
5. Dry with clean towel or air dry

Hand Sanitizer as an Alternative

When soap and water aren’t available, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol:

• Apply to palm of one hand
• Rub hands together, covering all surfaces
• Continue rubbing until hands feel dry (about 20 seconds)

Respiratory Etiquette

Teach and practice proper cough/sneeze etiquette:

• Cover mouth and nose with tissue when coughing or sneezing
• Dispose of tissues immediately
• If tissue isn’t available, cough/sneeze into elbow, not hands
• Wash hands immediately after

Masking for High-Risk Situations

While masking requirements have relaxed, masks remain effective tools for protecting vulnerable seniors.

When Seniors Should Consider Masking

High-risk situations where masking provides protection:

• Crowded indoor spaces with poor ventilation
• Healthcare settings (hospitals, clinics, emergency rooms)
• When respiratory illness activity is high in Rockford
• When around someone who is sick or recently exposed
• Public transportation
• If the senior is immunocompromised or at very high risk

Choosing the Right Mask

For best protection, use:

• N95 or KN95 respirators: Provide highest level of protection
• KF94 masks: Good protection with better fit for some face shapes
• Surgical masks: Better than cloth but less protective than N95/KN95
• Cloth masks: Provide minimal protection; not recommended for high-risk seniors

Proper Mask Usage

• Ensure mask covers both nose and mouth completely
• Fit should be snug against sides of face without gaps
• Don’t touch mask while wearing; wash hands before removing
• Replace disposable masks when damp, soiled, or damaged

Environmental Precautions and Social Strategies

Creating safer environments reduces respiratory illness transmission.

Improving Indoor Air Quality

Better ventilation reduces viral concentration in air:

• Open windows when weather permits (even briefly helps)
• Use HEPA air purifiers in rooms where senior spends time
• Improve HVAC filtration with higher MERV-rated filters
• Run bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans during gatherings

Smart Social Practices

Balancing social connection with safety:

• Gather outdoors when possible: Outdoor transmission risk is much lower
• Smaller is safer: Limit gathering sizes, especially indoors
• Test before visiting: Rapid COVID tests before visiting vulnerable seniors
• Stay home when sick: Even mild symptoms warrant staying away from seniors
• Consider video calls: When someone is symptomatic, virtual visits protect health

Visitor Screening

For caregivers or visitors of seniors at home:

• Ask about recent illness or exposures before visiting
• Check temperature if possible
• Wash hands immediately upon arrival
• Consider masking if you have any symptoms, even minor

At Alpine Fireside Health Center, we implement comprehensive infection control protocols including health screening for all visitors, staff health monitoring, enhanced cleaning procedures, and isolation protocols when residents develop symptoms.

Nutrition and Immune Support

While no food or supplement prevents illness, proper nutrition supports immune function.

Key Nutrients for Immune Health

Focus on nutrient-rich foods:

• Vitamin C: Citrus fruits, berries, bell peppers, broccoli
• Vitamin D: Fatty fish, fortified dairy, egg yolks (consider supplementation, especially in winter)
• Zinc: Meat, shellfish, legumes, nuts, seeds
• Protein: Lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, beans, dairy
• Antioxidants: Colorful fruits and vegetables

Hydration Matters

Adequate fluid intake supports immune function and helps thin mucus:

• Aim for 6-8 glasses of fluid daily
• Water, herbal tea, broth, and diluted juice all count
• Warm liquids may soothe respiratory symptoms

What About Supplements?

While supplements can’t replace vaccination or other precautions:

• Vitamin D: Many seniors are deficient; supplementation may help (discuss dosage with doctor)
• Multivitamin: Can fill nutritional gaps
• Probiotics: May support immune health
• Avoid mega-doses: More isn’t better; excessive amounts can be harmful

Always discuss supplements with your Rockford healthcare provider, as they can interact with medications.

Recognizing Symptoms: When to Seek Care

Early recognition and treatment of respiratory illnesses in seniors improves outcomes.

Common Symptoms to Watch For

Flu symptoms often include:

• Sudden onset of fever (though seniors may not always fever)
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Body aches and fatigue
• Headache
• Chills

COVID-19 symptoms can include:

• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Fatigue
• Body aches
• Loss of taste or smell (though less common with current variants)
• Sore throat, congestion, or runny nose
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

Atypical Presentations in Seniors

Important: Seniors may present differently than younger adults:

• May not develop fever despite serious infection
• Confusion or delirium may be the primary symptom
• Decreased appetite or refusing fluids
• Increased falls or weakness
• Worsening of chronic conditions

When to Contact Healthcare Provider

Call your Rockford doctor if your senior loved one develops:

• Any respiratory symptoms (don’t wait to see if they worsen)
• Fever over 100.4°F
• New confusion or behavioral changes
• Significant fatigue or weakness
• Loss of appetite lasting more than a day

Emergency Warning Signs

Seek immediate emergency care (call 911 or go to ER) if you observe:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Persistent chest pain or pressure
• New confusion or inability to wake up
• Bluish lips or face
• Severe weakness or inability to stand
• Seizures

UW Health SwedishAmerican and OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center in Rockford provide emergency care 24/7.

Antiviral Treatments for Seniors

When seniors do contract flu or COVID-19, antiviral medications can reduce severity.

Flu Antiviral Medications

Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and other antivirals:

• Most effective when started within 48 hours of symptom onset
• Can reduce symptom duration and severity
• May prevent complications like pneumonia
• Particularly important for high-risk seniors

COVID-19 Antiviral Medications

Paxlovid (nirmatrelvir/ritonavir):

• Oral antiviral for high-risk individuals
• Must be started within 5 days of symptom onset
• Significantly reduces risk of hospitalization and death
• Requires careful medication review (interacts with many common drugs)

Other treatments available for those who can’t take Paxlovid—discuss options with healthcare provider.

Importance of Early Medical Consultation

Don’t adopt a “wait and see” approach with seniors—early medical consultation allows for:

• Prompt antiviral treatment when appropriate
• Monitoring for complications
• Supportive care recommendations
• Adjustment of chronic disease medications if needed

Caring for a Senior at Home with Respiratory Illness

If your loved one contracts flu or COVID-19, proper home care supports recovery.

Isolation and Infection Control

Protect other household members:

• Keep sick person in a separate room if possible
• Use a dedicated bathroom if available
• Caregiver should wear mask when in same room
• Increase ventilation (open windows, use fans)
• Disinfect high-touch surfaces frequently
• Don’t share dishes, towels, or bedding

Supportive Care at Home

Keep your loved one comfortable:

• Rest: Encourage plenty of sleep and rest
• Fluids: Push fluids to prevent dehydration—water, broth, tea, electrolyte drinks
• Nutrition: Offer easy-to-eat, nutritious foods even if appetite is poor
• Fever management: Acetaminophen or ibuprofen as directed by doctor
• Humidity: Use humidifier to ease breathing and soothe airways
• Monitoring: Check temperature, breathing rate, and overall condition regularly

When Home Care Isn’t Sufficient

Some seniors require hospitalization or skilled nursing care during respiratory illness:

• Difficulty breathing or low oxygen levels
• Severe dehydration
• Inability to care for self due to weakness
• Worsening confusion
• Complications like pneumonia

Alpine Fireside Health Center provides skilled nursing care for seniors recovering from serious respiratory infections, including IV medications, oxygen therapy, respiratory treatments, 24/7 nursing monitoring, and rehabilitation services.

Special Considerations for Seniors with Dementia

Respiratory illness prevention presents unique challenges for individuals with dementia or memory loss.

Challenges with Dementia Patients

• May resist hand washing or mask wearing
• May not communicate symptoms clearly
• Cannot understand isolation instructions
• May wander, making isolation difficult
• Confusion often worsens during illness

Strategies for Protection

Adapt prevention strategies:

• Make hand washing part of established routines
• Watch for behavioral changes that might indicate illness
• Ensure vaccination (family may need to provide consent)
• Consider memory care facility with infection control protocols
• Use distraction and redirection rather than explaining masking

At Alpine Fireside Health Center, our Certified Dementia Practitioners are trained in managing infection control with memory care residents, using person-centered approaches that maintain safety while respecting individual needs and challenges.

Prevention in Care Facilities

For seniors living in nursing homes or assisted living in Rockford, facilities should implement comprehensive infection control.

What to Expect from Quality Facilities

Reputable facilities like Alpine Fireside implement:

• Staff health screening: Daily symptom checks; sick staff stay home
• Visitor policies: Screening, masking when appropriate, restrictions during outbreaks
• Vaccination clinics: Ensuring residents and staff are vaccinated
• Enhanced cleaning: Frequent disinfection of high-touch surfaces
• Isolation protocols: Quick response when residents develop symptoms
• Testing programs: Surveillance testing during high transmission periods
• Ventilation improvements: HEPA filtration, improved air exchange
• Communication: Transparent updates to families about facility status

Questions to Ask Care Facilities

If your loved one lives in a facility, ask:

• What are your current infection control policies?
• What percentage of residents and staff are vaccinated?
• How do you communicate with families during outbreaks?
• What is your isolation protocol if residents test positive?
• How do you balance safety with quality of life and family connection?

Balancing Safety with Quality of Life

While protection from illness is crucial, social isolation damages senior health too.

The Risks of Isolation

Prolonged isolation from family and activities contributes to:

• Depression and anxiety
• Cognitive decline
• Physical deconditioning
• Loss of purpose and meaning
• Decreased will to live

Finding the Right Balance

Strategies for maintaining connection safely:

• Risk-stratify activities: Outdoor visits are lower risk than indoor; small gatherings safer than large
• Use layered protection: Vaccination + masking + ventilation + small groups = very low risk
• Stay flexible: Adjust precautions based on current local transmission rates
• Prioritize what matters most: If choices must be made, prioritize the most meaningful connections
• Use technology: Video calls aren’t perfect but maintain connection during high-risk periods

Quality of Life in Care Facilities

At Alpine Fireside Health Center, we’re committed to balancing infection control with quality of life:

• Continuing meaningful activities even during respiratory illness season
• Facilitating family visits with appropriate precautions
• Providing outdoor spaces for safer visits
• Using video calls to supplement in-person visits when needed
• Maintaining social programming adapted to current conditions

Preparing for Respiratory Illness Season

Proactive preparation reduces stress if your senior loved one does become ill.

Create an Illness Action Plan

Before illness strikes:

1. Know your doctor’s sick visit process: After-hours number, patient portal, when to call
2. Identify nearest urgent care and ER: Have addresses and directions ready
3. Stock supplies: Thermometer, over-the-counter medications, tissues, hand sanitizer, masks
4. Have current medication list: Include dosages and pharmacy information
5. Establish care team: Who can help if primary caregiver gets sick too?
6. Review insurance coverage: Know what’s covered for telehealth, urgent care, ER

Stock a Sick Care Kit

Keep these items on hand:

• Digital thermometer
• Acetaminophen and ibuprofen
• Cough medicine (check with doctor for appropriate type)
• Tissues and paper towels
• Hand sanitizer
• Disinfecting wipes
• Electrolyte drinks
• Soup, broth, and other easy-to-eat comfort foods
• Extra masks

Hope and Perspective

While respiratory illness risks are real, effective protections exist. With vaccination, reasonable precautions, and prompt medical care when needed, most seniors can navigate flu and COVID season safely.

The key is finding the right balance for your family—protecting health while maintaining the connections and activities that make life meaningful.