Care Connection: Convenient care options are available for common winter illnesses

January 23, 2025

From stomach bugs to respiratory viruses, the winter months often harbor perfect conditions for a variety of illnesses. And when the symptoms of those illnesses prevent you from wanting to make an in-person visit to your primary care provider, WVU Medicine Care Connection can help.

WVU Medicine employees and their families who are enrolled in a WVU Medicine medical plan can receive convenient virtual care options with a secure connection via a smartphone, computer, or tablet. You’ll discuss your symptoms with a WVU Medicine provider, and they’ll develop a treatment plan that’s right for you.

The Care Connection programs include:

  • Virtual video visits treat acute, non-emergent primary care needs for patients in West Virginia and Pennsylvania. (These visits can be completed through WVU Urgent Care.)
  • E-visits can be used to treat a wide range of conditions via MyWVUChart for patients in West Virginia.
  • Nurse navigators offer quick, expert advice and answer any questions about your symptoms: 1-844-484-2360. This service is available to patients in every state except Alaska, California, Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New York, and Oregon.

Here are some things to remember when it comes to common winter ailments:

Norovirus

Norovirus, sometimes called the “stomach flu” or the “stomach bug,” is an extremely contagious virus that causes vomiting and diarrhea due to inflammation of the stomach or intestines. While most people with norovirus get better within one to three days, they can still spread the virus for a few days after their symptoms are gone.

Norovirus spreads quickly and easily via food, water, and surfaces that have been contaminated by the virus. Common symptoms of the illness include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and stomach pain, but people might also experience fever, headache, and body aches. Symptoms typically develop 12 to 48 hours after a person has been exposed to norovirus.

RSV

Respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, is a respiratory virus that can cause mild, cold-like symptoms. While most people recover in a week or two, RSV can be serious, especially for infants and older adults. If you’ve been infected with RSV, you’ll start to show symptoms four to six days after getting infected. Symptoms – which usually appear in stages – include a runny nose, decreased appetite, cough, sneezing, fever, and wheezing.

A vaccine is available to help protect against RSV and is recommended for all adults ages 75 years and older, as well as for adults between the ages of 60 and 74 who are at increased risk of developing severe RSV.

Care Connection patients may need additional testing, imaging, or treatment for serious illnesses or injuries. If you or a family member is experiencing severe pain or discomfort, visit the emergency room or call 911.