As children return to school and respiratory virus season approaches, now is a good time to plan ahead for where to seek care and how to help prevent the spread of illness.

Fall brings many favorite traditions, from football games and changing leaves to cozy evenings at home. It also brings an increase in illnesses such as influenza, COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses. Knowing where to go for care and when to seek treatment can help patients and families save time, reduce stress and avoid unnecessary health care costs.

Healthcare providers often refer to this time of year as "respiratory season." Typically lasting from October through March, respiratory season can lead to increased demand across the healthcare system, including primary care clinics, urgent care centers, hospitals and emergency departments.

"In pediatric care, we always knew respiratory season would bring a significant increase in patient volume across the healthcare system," said Amy Ferris, a former pediatric registered nurse. "Planning ahead and knowing where to seek care can help families navigate illness more confidently."

navigate illness more confidently."

Call Us First

To help patients navigate their care options, CU Medicine encourages you to call your primary care provider's office first.

"Your primary care team is often the best place to start when you're not sure what level of care you need," Ferris said. "A quick phone call can help patients get the right care at the right time and potentially avoid unnecessary trips to the emergency department."

If you're unsure whether you need an appointment, urgent care or emergency care, your primary care team can help guide you to the right level of care. CU Medicine patients have access to after-hours support, allowing nurses and providers to help assess your symptoms and discuss your care options when the office is closed.

Depending on your symptoms and medical needs, recommendations may include:

• A next-day office appointment
• A virtual visit
• An urgent care visit
• Emergency department care when necessary

Benefits of Calling Us First

Calling your primary care provider before seeking care can:

• Help you determine the most appropriate level of care
• Reduce unnecessary emergency department visits
• Improve convenience and access to services
• Provide reassurance and guidance during illness

Tips to Help Prevent the Spread of Illness

In addition to knowing where to seek care, taking preventive steps can help keep families and communities healthier throughout the fall and winter months.

Consider the following recommendations:

• Wash your hands frequently and encourage family members to do the same.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Stay home when you're sick.
• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
• Get an annual flu vaccine.
• Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow.

Small actions can make a big difference in reducing the spread of illness and protecting those around you.

Important Health Reminder

If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Examples of medical emergencies include:

• Difficulty breathing or severe shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Signs of stroke
• Severe allergic reactions
• Serious injuries or uncontrolled bleeding

This fall, a little preparation can go a long way. By knowing your care options, taking steps to prevent illness and remembering to call your primary care provider first, patients and families can get the right care at the right time.

Find a Primary Care Provider

Having a primary care provider can make it easier to get the right care when you need it. Your primary care team can help manage routine health needs, answer questions about symptoms and guide you to the most appropriate level of care.

Don't have a primary care provider? Find a CU Medicine primary care provider and establish care before respiratory virus season begins. Having an established relationship with a provider can help you access care more quickly when illness strikes.

Looking for additional information on where to get care? Read our guide on how to know whether you should visit the emergency department, urgent care or your primary care provider to better understand your options and make informed decisions when you or a loved one becomes sick.