Cold, flu, and RSV season can be overwhelming, especially as families gear up for back-to-school and the start of fall. In Cold, Flu & RSV Season Simplified, host Zenola Smith sits down with Dani Hill to break down what you need to know about these common viruses and how to keep your loved ones safe.

Dani explains how cold, flu, and RSV spread, who is most at risk, and simple prevention strategies that actually work. The conversation also covers vaccine considerations, how to avoid getting sick, managing symptoms at home, and when it is best to visit urgent care versus a trip to the ER .

Whether you are a parent preparing kids for school, caring for older relatives, or just looking to stay healthy, this episode offers trusted, easy-to-follow advice to help your family navigate the season with confidence.

Key Topics Discussed

• Understanding what cold, flu, and RSV symptoms are and how they differ

• How these viruses spread and why they spike during back-to-school and fall

• Practical prevention tips for families, including healthy habits and vaccines

• Recognizing symptoms across age groups and when to manage care at home

• Knowing when to call your pediatrician or primary care provider

• When to choose urgent care versus when a trip to the ER is needed

• Guidance for parents of newborns, toddlers, school-aged kids, and vulnerable groups

• Myths and misconceptions about RSV vs cold vs flu

• How to protect high-risk populations and limit the spread within families

• Preparing your household for the season and keeping everyone as healthy as possible

About the Guest

Dani Hill is a Certified Health Education Specialist with over 15 years of experience developing wellness and prevention programs. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Human Nutrition, Foods, and Exercise from Virginia Tech and a Master’s degree in Health Promotion from the University of Alabama. At Sentara Health Plans, Dani focuses on creating action-oriented messaging and practical health education that helps individuals and families make informed decisions about their well-being. Her work centers on visual learning and empowering communities through accessible, evidence-based wellness strategies.

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Disclaimer

The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Sentara Health Plans. The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. We strongly encourage you to consult with your primary care physician before taking any actions based on the information provided in this podcast.

By listening to this podcast, you agree that Sentara Health Plans is not liable for any damages or losses arising from the use or misuse of the information presented here.