What’s Going Around in January in Georgia: Flu, RSV, Strep, and Winter Viruses

January is typically the height of winter illness season in Georgia, and many families find themselves dealing with lingering coughs, fevers, sore throats, and fatigue. It’s common for more than one illness to move through the household close together, which can make it hard to know what’s normal and when to call the pediatrician.

Flu, RSV, and strep continue to circulate heavily this time of year, along with a variety of winter viruses that don’t always fit neatly into one category. Symptoms often overlap, and children may look very different from one illness to the next.

Illnesses parents are seeing most often right now:

• Flu with sudden fever, body aches, fatigue, cough, and sore throat

• RSV with persistent cough or breathing concerns, especially in younger children

• Strep throat with sudden sore throat, fever, swollen glands, and usually no cough

• Winter viruses causing congestion, low-grade fever, stomach upset, or lingering fatigue

When symptoms blur together, parents are often left wondering whether it’s something that can be watched at home or if it’s time to call. A fever lasting more than two to three days, symptoms that worsen instead of improve, breathing that seems fast or labored, or a child who just isn’t acting like themselves are all good reasons to reach out.

Many of these concerns can be evaluated through Telehealth or a phone visit, which allows families to get guidance without unnecessary exposure. Telehealth can be helpful for fever, cough, sore throat, illness questions while traveling, follow-up concerns, or those “is this normal?” moments. Call the office to schedule (912-369-5437) or preregister online so you are ready when needed.