As temperatures drop and flu season approaches, ChristianaCare is reminding Delawareans that prevention and preparedness are key to staying healthy this winter. The health system is relaunching its Cough and Cold Line—a quick, reliable phone resource that helps callers manage symptoms, find care, and connect with medical professionals without delay.
Now available by calling 302-623-7400, the Cough and Cold Line offers a guided series of prompts to help adults 18 and older determine whether they can manage their symptoms at home or need to connect with ChristianaCare’s virtual primary care providers. The line is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
“We are excited to relaunch the Cough and Cold Line as part of our proactive approach to supporting our community with essential resources that promote health and awareness during the cold and flu season,” said Cynthia Griffin, MS, BSN, RN, chief nursing officer of Community Care at ChristianaCare and project lead for the initiative.
The line was first introduced last year, when a sharp rise in respiratory illnesses created one of the toughest flu seasons in recent memory. During its first seven weeks, more than 1,200 people used the service—a clear sign, Griffin said, that there was a need for fast, accessible health guidance.
“Last year, we had to respond reactively to the high rates of respiratory illnesses that arose during flu season,” Griffin explained. “This year, however, we’re taking early action by providing our community with the tools and information they need to stay healthy throughout the cold and flu season.”
Health officials expect the upcoming respiratory virus season—including influenza, RSV, and COVID-19—to resemble last year’s in terms of peak hospitalizations, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). To help reduce the spread, ChristianaCare GoHealth Urgent Care centers across Delaware are offering flu shots and same-day care for cold and flu symptoms.
“The flu spreads easily, especially in the fall and winter,” said Priyanka Dixit-Patel, M.D., physician executive for Primary Care at ChristianaCare. “Healthy habits like handwashing, covering your cough, and getting your flu vaccine are our primary defenses to stay ahead this flu season. While these practices may seem minor, when practiced consistently, they significantly help protect both you and those around you.”
Dixit-Patel added that many people can receive their flu and COVID-19 vaccines during the same visit.
“It’s important to consult your primary care provider to determine if a COVID booster is suitable for you,” she said. “Your provider can help you understand your options and advise on the best course of action tailored to your individual needs. Additionally, having at-home testing kits can provide valuable information when determining your care plan.”
ChristianaCare’s GoHealth Urgent Care facilities are open seven days a week, with most locations operating until 8 p.m., and extended hours at the Middletown and Dover centers until midnight.
Health experts say small habits can make a big difference. Frequent handwashing with soap for at least 20 seconds, or using a sanitizer with 60% alcohol, can prevent germs from entering the respiratory system. Covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing—and wearing a mask if you are sick—helps reduce the spread of viruses.
It’s also important to avoid close contact with others when ill and stay home until symptoms improve and you’ve been fever-free for at least 24 hours without medication.
“Being proactive and focused on prevention is the best medicine,” said Dixit-Patel. “When we each take small steps, we make a big impact on keeping our families and communities healthy.”
For more information about flu prevention, vaccines, and updates for the 2025–2026 season, visit the CDC’s flu webpage at CDC.gov/flu.
