Astrovirus causes gastroenteritis in children, the elderly, and others with impaired immune systems. Learn more about symptoms, causes, and treatment. Astroviruses are a type of virus that causes diarrheal illness (gastroenteritis). Infants and...

Could it be strep throat or bronchitis? Learn about the full range of illnesses often mistaken for the cold or flu and when it's time to see your doctor.

Many illnesses are caused by viruses spread through casual contact. We take a closer look at common viral infections and how to keep from catching them. Millions of Americans get sick with viral infections every year. Viruses are microscopic...

If you have flu-like symptoms, you may or may not actually have influenza. A variety of viral and some bacterial infections can mimic the signs. A flu-like illness is a condition that causes symptoms similar to influenza. The 2011 clinical...

Parainfluenza is a virus that can cause upper and lower respiratory infections, including bronchitis, croup, and pneumonia. Learn how it differs from the flu. Parainfluenza is a common virus that can cause both upper and lower respiratory...

How do you know if you have H1N1 swine flu? Learn about how swine flu is diagnosed, usually via physical examination and a rapid flu test. Diagnosing H1N1 swine flu is typically done through a combination of lab testing and clinical diagnosis by...

Many people are concerned that a fever will cause brain damage, especially if left untreated. Learn if there is any truth to this claim. A fever, especially a high and/or prolonged one, can be a concern for several reasons. But, one thing you likely...

The cold/flu makes you feel miserable, but these common cold complications will make you feel worse. Learn about bronchitis, ear infections, and more. While both the common cold and flu can leave you feeling pretty miserable, the complications of...

Pertussis is generally much more mild in adults than children, which can lead some adults to spread the disease without knowing it. Pertussis, known commonly as “whooping cough,” is a very contagious respiratory illness that typically affects...

Find out the most common causes of a cough​, how a cough is evaluated, and how the duration of an acute, sub-acute, or chronic cough informs the diagnosis. A cough is simply an abrupt expulsion of air meant to clear an irritant, obstruction,...