We begin in Okemos, where Dr. Dennis Perry at Meridian Primary Care, a partner of Ingham Regional, is treating colds.

Symptoms are upper respiratory in nature and include nasal congestion, sore throat and fever.

These symptoms can last up to three days, will follow with a cough, then will go away.

To treat a cold, take Tylenol or ibuprofen for fever control and sore throat pain relief. Drink lots of fluids and get plenty of rest.

If you have a high and persistent fever greater than 102.5 you should be seen by a doctor immediately.

Dr. Perry is also treating allergies, primarily due to ragweed.

Symptoms include runny, stuffy nose; itchy nose, eyes or throat; wheezing, sneezing, sinus pressure and tearing at the eyes.

Antihistamines, including many over-the-counter ones, are usually the first line of treatment

Saline sprays two to three times a day can be helpful in washing away dust, pollen, and other allergens from the nasal passages.

Depending on the severity of your allergies you may benefit from steroid nasal sprays.

In Michigan Center, Dr. Rubina Shaikh at Allegiance Family Medicine says strep throat is going around.

Symptoms of strep include sudden sore, red, swollen throat without cold symptoms.

You may also have fever, swollen glands, and whitish-yellow patches or blisters on the back of the throat.

Children may also have stomach pain or vomiting.

To treat strep, you need antibiotics, so see a doctor.

Most people will feel better within two to three days after starting the medication. In the meantime, drink fluids, gargle with salt water, and take ibuprofen to relief pain and reduce fever.

Strep throat is very contagious. You should wash your hands frequently and do not share utensils, straws or toothbrushes.

Most people are not contagious after they have taken antibiotics for 24 hours.