Fall Observations: Kids Experience Surge in Respiratory Infections

Thu Oct 23 2025 04:23:05 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

As autumn arrives, children are increasingly susceptible to colds and respiratory viruses, with a study revealing that younger students show the highest rates of illness. Experts offer guidance for keeping children healthy during this season.

A recent study highlights that almost all children in pre-kindergarten and elementary school show high rates of respiratory virus detection as fall begins, emphasizing the importance of vaccinations, hygiene, and monitoring symptoms to manage children's health during the respiratory season.

Forget colorful leaves. Any caregiver knows that the real signs of fall are kids with coughs, sneezes and sniffles. Autumn marks the beginning of respiratory virus season, when colds and other bugs start circulating — especially among the very young.

A recent study confirmed the familiar struggles for families: Young children tend to harbor the most germs. Research published in the journal Pediatrics indicated that students in pre-kindergarten and elementary school show a significantly higher rate of virus detection compared to older students and staff.

Younger kids were more likely to have virus detected

Researchers analyzed nasal swabs and symptoms from over 800 participants across a Kansas City school district from November 2022 to May 2023. The findings revealed that more than 85% of participants had at least one respiratory virus detected and over 80% experienced acute respiratory illness during this period.

According to the study, 92% of pre-K and elementary school kids tested positive for a virus, compared to 86% of middle school students, 77% of high school students, and 76% of staff. Pre-K children, aged 3 to 5, also reported the highest rates of illness.

Common cold-causing viruses were predominant among the participants, especially rhinovirus and types of seasonal coronavirus.

Study confirms the experiences of pediatricians who are parents

This study aligns with the experiences of pediatricians who are parents, reinforcing the understanding that young children often experience more severe illnesses. It correlates with prior research indicating that younger children significantly contribute to the spread of respiratory viruses within households.

How to prevent illness — or at least try to

Experts emphasize the difficulty of preventing illness in children at school or home. Staying up-to-date with vaccinations and promoting hand hygiene are essential. When illness occurs, supportive care like rest and fluids is crucial. Nevertheless, health professionals suggest that it's common for younger children to get sick every month or six weeks during respiratory season.

As the fall season progresses, parents and caregivers must remain vigilant, ensuring their children get adequate care to navigate this challenging time.