CDC Warns of Rising COVID-19, Flu, and RSV Cases Across the US
By Pierre Herubel
Dr. Mandy Cohen, Director of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), addressed a congressional subcommittee on Thursday, delivering important updates on the surge of respiratory illnesses in the US, particularly those associated with flu, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
Cohen highlighted the current surge of RSV, especially in the southern regions of the US, as reported by CNN. At the same time, the flu season is starting, with an expected increase throughout December and January.
While COVID-19 levels remain relatively low, it continues to be the leading cause of new respiratory hospitalizations and deaths, resulting in approximately 15,000 hospitalizations and 1,000 deaths per week.
Underlining the importance of vaccination against these respiratory viruses, Cohen urged Americans to get vaccinated promptly.
She emphasized the critical need for testing and early treatment if symptoms develop, as antiviral drugs are most effective in the early stages of infection.
Current vaccination rates indicate that over a third of adults and children have received their flu shot. However, only 16% of adults and 6% of children have received the COVID-19 vaccine. Additionally, about 15% of older adults (60 and older) have been vaccinated against RSV.
The southern and western regions of the US are experiencing increased activity of respiratory viruses. Warren County in Ohio reported an “outbreak” of pediatric pneumonia cases, contributing to the three-quarters capacity of pediatric hospital beds nationwide, the highest since mid-December 2022.
Experts are urging the public to take precautions as pediatric hospitalizations due to respiratory viruses, including COVID-19, flu, and RSV, continue to rise.
As flu season intensifies, Alicia Budd, who leads the CDC’s flu surveillance team, noted “continued increases” in flu cases. Health experts recommend vaccinations for both influenza and COVID-19, given the overlapping symptoms. One infection can increase susceptibility to others by weakening the immune system.
In addition to vaccinations, health experts advise adopting six healthy habits to stay safe during the season:
– Get the COVID-19 and flu vaccines.
– Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when sneezing or coughing.
– Stay home if you feel symptomatic to prevent the spread of illness.
– Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
– Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
– Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Meanwhile, the UK Health Security Agency reported the detection of a new swine flu type, A (H1N2)v, clade 1b.1.1, in a human, according to Fortune. Although the patient recovered fully, health authorities are investigating the possibility of community spread, emphasizing the need for swift action to trace contacts and assess the risk to humans.
As the nation faces this surge in respiratory illnesses, health officials stress the importance of vaccination, preventive measures, and early intervention to mitigate the impact of these viruses.
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