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6 Common Illnesses and How to Avoid Spreading Them

Mansfield Urgent Care & Family Medicine Blog 6 Common Illnesses and How to Avoid Spreading Them
6 Common Illnesses and How to Avoid Spreading Them

Winter is in full swing, and so are the respiratory illnesses that invariably accompany it.  Viruses from the common cold to COVID-19 peak during the winter months. 

There are several contributing factors. For starters, cold weather can weaken your immune response — particularly within your nose. Chilly temperatures also drive people indoors, increasing their exposure to germs. Viruses live longer and spread more easily in poorly ventilated enclosed spaces. Add dry air from heating, which also decreases your body's defenses, plus increased, closer contact, and it’s easy to see why more people get sick in winter.

To help you avoid being among them, Dr. Jeffrey James Fisher and the team at Mansfield Urgent Care & Family Medicine break down six common, contagious illnesses and outline steps to protect yourself and those around you.

Winter’s most prevalent illnesses

Every year, these unwelcome visitors take hold across the country:

1. The common cold

It’s called the common cold for a reason. Adults get 2-4 colds each year, usually between September and May. And kids get even more. A cold generally lasts about a week, but can take longer, especially in children and older adults.

2. Influenza

The next most prevalent winter illness is the flu, which his been especially active in our state this year, most severely impacting children ages 5-11.



3. COVID-19

COVID-19, now in its sixth year, is likely here to stay. As of January 20, 2026, COVID-19 infections were growing in five states, including Texas. This season’s emerging strain is highly transmissible, spreading easily through close contact settings such as schools and workplaces.

4. Bronchitis

Acute bronchitis, a contagious respiratory infection, affects about 5% of adults in the US each year.

5. Pneumonia

About 1 million adults in the US are hospitalized annually because of pneumonia.  It’s also the leading cause of hospitalization for kids.

6. Strep throat

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that strep infections in the US have been increasing over the past decade, with most occurring between December and April. 

Halting the spread

Each of the illnesses listed above can easily be spread through respiratory droplets and close contact.

Among the most effective ways to contain these illnesses is through vaccination. While we can’t vaccinate against the common cold, strep throat, or bronchitis, we can vaccinate against COVID-19, the flu, and pneumonia. It’s worth noting that the flu vaccine also helps to protect you against bronchitis.

In addition to vaccinations, here are five crucial steps to take:

To avoid spreading these common illnesses, get tested if you suspect that you’re sick. We offer comprehensive testing here. If you test positive, you can then take steps to isolate yourself to prevent spreading the virus.

Of course, the best defense in stopping the spread is to stay healthy. Get plenty of sleep, adhere to a healthy diet, stay active, and stay hydrated.

If you are at high risk of getting sick, make an appointment with us to create an individualized respiratory prevention plan.

If, despite your best efforts, you fall ill, we’re here to help. We offer same-day appointments. Call our office at 817-473-3979 or use the online booking tool to request an appointment.