LANSING, Mich. (WILX) - As fall weather settles in, Michigan doctors are reporting an increase in respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19 and influenza cases.

Dr. Peter Gulick of Michigan State University said he is seeing patients with severe sore throats, which he described as “razor sharp” and characteristic of current COVID outbreaks.

“The weather is getting different, it’s getting colder, people are going to start getting indoors more,” Gulick said.

The seasonal shift brings increased risk for contagious diseases as people spend more time indoors together.

McLaren Emergency Department Dr. Crystal Arthur emphasized the importance of frequent hand washing, particularly for families with school-aged children. She also stressed the need to stay home when feeling unwell.

“I think we

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