Winter Viruses Wreak Havoc on Americans
Flu Season in Full Swing
The holidays came with a side of flu for many Americans, with 40 states reporting high or very high levels of illness last week, according to the latest government health data. "A lot of flu out there," said the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Carrie Reed.
RSV and COVID-19: Other Germs to Watch Out For
Of course, there are a number of bugs that cause fever, cough, sore throat, and other flu-like symptoms. One is COVID-19. Another is RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, which is a common cause of cold-like symptoms but can be dangerous for infants and the elderly.
Flu Virus Trends Higher than Other Germs
The most recent CDC hospitalization data and other indicators show that the flu virus is trending higher than the other germs, Reed said. Several seasonal flu strains are driving cases, with no dominant one, she added.
Pediatric Hospitals Busy with RSV and Influenza
Pediatric hospitals have been busy since November with RSV, but "influenza has now joined the party," said Dr. Jason Newland, an infectious diseases specialist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. "Now we’re really starting to roll," he added. "Our hospitals are busy."
Where Flu Illnesses Are the Highest
One indicator of flu activity is the percentage of doctor’s office visits driven by flu-like symptoms. That level last week was about equal to the peak of last winter’s respiratory virus season — which occurred at the same time of year. Reed noted that most people avoid medical appointments over the holidays if they can help it, so the data in late December might be skewed by people who came down with sudden illnesses.
Protecting Yourself from Seasonal Illnesses
U.S. health officials recommend that everyone 6 months and older get an annual flu vaccination, and they say it’s not too late to get a shot. You should also avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth because germs can spread that way, health officials say. You should also wash your hands with soap and water, clean frequently touched surfaces, and avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Other Germs Being Watched
The CDC also has been keeping its eye on a rise of illnesses from norovirus, a nasty stomach bug, with 91 outbreaks reported early in December. Investigators also have been closely watching another kind of influenza virus, the Type A H5N1 version of bird flu. The CDC says 66 human U.S. cases of that were reported last year, but none of them in the last week.
Conclusion
As the winter season continues, it’s essential to take precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones from seasonal illnesses. Get vaccinated, practice good hygiene, and avoid close contact with those who are sick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many people have been hospitalized with the flu this season?
A: At least 63,000 people have been hospitalized due to the flu this season.
Q: How many deaths have been reported due to the flu this season?
A: At least 2,700 deaths have been reported due to the flu this season, including at least 11 children.
Q: Which flu strains are driving cases this season?
A: Several seasonal flu strains are driving cases, with no dominant one.
Q: Is it too late to get a flu vaccination?
A: No, it’s not too late to get a flu vaccination. U.S. health officials recommend that everyone 6 months and older get an annual flu vaccination.
