Updated Dec. 8, 2025, 11:20 a.m. ET
You may find yourself reaching for tissues and a thermometer during the winter months, wondering what has you under the weather.
As flu and cold season arrives, Michiganders face other illnesses like bronchitis and COVID-19. While the viruses and related illnesses can be widespread during the winter months, medical experts advise key practices and resources can help you identify symptoms and stop the spread.
“The best way to reduce your risk from seasonal flu and its potentially serious complications is to get a flu vaccine every year,” the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website says.
You can get a free or low-cost flu shot at pharmacies and health care providers across Michigan this season.
Here’s what to know about seasonal health concerns.
Is bronchitis contagious?
While bronchitis is not contagious, the viruses and bacteria that cause it are, the Cleveland Clinic says.
What is bronchitis?
Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, the airways leading to your lungs, and sees them fill with mucus, according to the Cleveland Clinic and Mayo Clinic.
Acute bronchitis is a temporary, common illness caused by a viral infection, while chronic bronchitis is a long-term condition.
Flu and cold viruses are the typical causes of bronchitis, although a bacterial infection also can lead to the condition.
When is peak flu season?
Peak flu season runs from December to February, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
What is the flu?
The flu is a common respiratory illness you get from the influenza virus, the Cleveland Clinic said.
What are the symptoms of the flu?
Symptoms of the flu can include fever, sore throat, runny nose, fatigue, body aches, cough and headaches.
Where can you get the flu shot in Michigan?
Check with your local pharmacy, doctor’s office or health department to set up your flu shot. Many health care providers offer appointments or walk-in options.
How much does the flu shot cost?
The flu shot may be free or low cost with most insurance options.
What is COVID-19?
COVID-19 is a respiratory illness caused by a coronavirus, according to the CDC.
What are the symptoms of COVID-19?
Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough, fatigue, headache, nausea, sore throat, runny nose and loss of taste or smell. COVID-19 also may cause long-lasting symptoms, unlike the flu or cold, that seem unrelated to the original infection.
Is there a new COVID variant?
The most recent covid variant is XFG, or the Stratus variant, according to The Ohio State University.
What are the new COVID strain’s symptoms?
Symptoms of the XFG COVID strain are similar to other strains and include the following, according to OSU:
- Congestion
- Cough
- Fever
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Muscle aches
What’s razor blade throat?
NB.1.8.1 — or Nimbus — is a subvariant of Omicron, a dominant COVID variant since late 2021. Omicron variants tend to cause more throat problems than the virus’s earliest forms, WebMD says.
COVID viruses bind to ACE2 receptors. Cells in the upper airway (nose, throat) have more ACE2 receptors than those in the lower airway and lungs do — making them prime targets for Omicron variants, WebMD says. Once the virus reaches those cell receptors in and around your throat, your immune system kicks in.
Where can you get free COVID tests in Michigan?
In Michigan, free covid tests are available at neighborhood wellness centers across the state. You can also access COVID-19 testing at healthcare facilities and pharmacies, potentially at no cost if covered by insurance.
How do COVID vs flu symptoms manifest?
The two illnesses are both contagious and feature similar symptoms but are caused by different viruses and can have different onset periods, the CDC said.
Flu symptoms may appear within one to four days of infection, while COVID-19 symptoms may appear up to 14 days after infection. COVID-19 can be contagious for longer than the flu and may include more severe complications.
How long does flu season last?
Flu season lasts into the spring, usually slowing in May, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Influenza viruses can spread year-round.
Contact Jenna Prestininzi: jprestininzi@freepress.com.
