Tag

Respiratoryillnesses

All articles tagged with #respiratoryillnesses

health2 years ago

"Europe Confronts Surge in Winter Respiratory Illnesses"

Europe is currently facing a 'tridemic' of respiratory illnesses, which refers to the simultaneous outbreak of three different respiratory infections. This situation is putting a significant strain on healthcare systems across the continent. The term 'tridemic' typically includes a combination of influenza, COVID-19, and another respiratory virus such as RSV (respiratory syncytial virus). The convergence of these illnesses can lead to increased hospitalizations and a need for public health measures to control the spread and impact of these diseases.

health2 years ago

"Masks' Role in Mitigating Illness Spread During Current COVID and Flu Season"

As respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19, influenza, and RSV, surge on Long Island, health officials continue to recommend masking and vaccination as key protective measures, particularly for the immunocompromised. Despite this, public adherence to masking has waned, with many indoor settings no longer mandating their use. Medical professionals emphasize the effectiveness of well-fitting N95 masks but acknowledge the challenge of combating masking fatigue. Mask mandates remain largely absent except in specific health and hospital settings, where some institutions have implemented requirements for staff and visitors to wear masks, especially around vulnerable populations.

health2 years ago

"Rising Tide of 'Tripledemic' Post-Holiday: Navigating the Surge in Flu, COVID, and RSV Cases"

The U.S. is experiencing a worsening flu season, with 38 states reporting high levels of respiratory illnesses, which may include COVID-19 and other viruses. The CDC anticipates elevated illness rates for several more weeks, although this is considered a moderate flu season. Flu shots appear to be effective against the prevalent strain. COVID-19 hospitalizations have not reached the levels of previous winters, but a new variant, JN.1, is now dominant. There is uncertainty about the peak of the current surge, with at least 10 million flu illnesses, 110,000 hospitalizations, and 6,500 deaths, including 27 children, reported since October.

health2 years ago

"Holiday Gatherings Lead to Nationwide Spike in COVID, Flu, and RSV Cases"

Post-holiday gatherings have led to a surge in respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19, flu, and RSV, with health experts warning that the peak of COVID-19 is yet to come. The CDC reports high levels of these viruses across most states, particularly in the Southeast. They recommend testing and early treatment for those with severe symptoms to prevent hospitalization. Vaccines, tests, and treatments are generally covered by health insurance, and there are programs for the uninsured. Preventative measures such as avoiding crowded areas, wearing masks, and practicing good hygiene are advised to protect oneself and others, especially the vulnerable population.

health2 years ago

"Rising Respiratory Infections: Combating the Surge of COVID, Flu, and RSV"

Hospitals, particularly within the Geisinger system, are facing capacity challenges due to a dramatic increase in respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19, RSV, and the flu. Dr. Ronald Strony advises the public to use discretion when seeking ER care for mild symptoms and suggests visiting walk-in clinics or consulting primary care physicians instead. He emphasizes the importance of vaccinations, masks, and staying home when sick to prevent the spread of these viruses.

health2 years ago

"Surge in Respiratory Illnesses Strains U.S. Hospitals Post-Holidays"

Indiana hospitals are currently facing a surge in respiratory illnesses, with significant increases in COVID-19, influenza, and RSV cases. While the situation is putting stress on healthcare facilities, doctors report that the numbers are manageable and not as high as during the peak of the pandemic. Health officials emphasize the importance of vaccinations and basic hygiene practices to prevent the spread of these illnesses. Monitoring continues through emergency department visits and wastewater analysis, with the CDC recommending continued precautions for those with COVID-19.

health2 years ago

"Resurgence of Mask Mandates in Hospitals Amid Rising Flu and COVID-19 Cases"

As respiratory illnesses, including Covid, the flu, and RSV, surge in the U.S., mask mandates are being reinstated in healthcare settings across several states such as Illinois, Massachusetts, New York, and California. The rise in hospitalizations has been linked to the "tripledemic" and the spread of the new Covid variant JN.1, which has become a variant of interest due to its rapid growth and potential risk to global public health. Despite concerns, vaccine makers have assured that current shots offer some protection against this variant.

health2 years ago

"Mask Mandates Reinstated in Hospitals Nationwide Amid Rising Flu and COVID-19 Cases"

Main Line Health has reinstated mask requirements at all its facilities in response to a rise in COVID cases and other respiratory viruses in the Philadelphia region. The decision, influenced by national and local data, comes as the health system sees an increase in severely ill COVID patients, some requiring ICU admission. The mask mandate aims to create a "protective barrier" for staff and patients and will be re-evaluated after two weeks. Health officials encourage vaccination and the use of medications like Paxlovid for those at risk, while not currently considering a public mask mandate.

health2 years ago

"Virginia Faces Surge in Respiratory Illnesses Post-Holidays as Flu and COVID Rates Spike"

Post-holiday gatherings have led to a surge in respiratory illnesses, with urgent care centers in Richmond, VA experiencing high patient volumes. Health officials, including Dr. Elizabeth Jenkins, attribute the rise in COVID-19 and flu cases to increased physical contact during the holidays. With a 20% increase in COVID cases in one week, medical professionals are advising the public on when to seek testing and care, including the use of telehealth services and in-car waiting options to alleviate crowded facilities. The Virginia Department of Health expects the influx of patients to continue through January, emphasizing the importance of early treatment.

health2 years ago

"Hospitals Overwhelmed by Rising Pediatric Respiratory Cases"

Children's hospitals across the U.S., including Cook Children's Medical Center in Fort Worth, Texas, are facing an overwhelming number of pediatric patients with respiratory illnesses such as RSV and the flu. With over 73,000 flu hospitalizations and 45,000 deaths this season, hospitals are under strain, especially as less than 50% of U.S. children have received the flu vaccine, marking the lowest rate in five years. Despite a decrease in RSV cases, flu and COVID-19 are on the rise, leading hospitals to expand capacity and prepare for more admissions as children return to school after the holidays.

health2 years ago

"Hospitals Overwhelmed by Rising Pediatric Respiratory Cases"

Hospitals across the U.S., including Cook Children's Medical Center in Texas, are facing an overwhelming number of pediatric patients with respiratory illnesses such as RSV and the flu. With over 73,000 flu hospitalizations and 45,000 deaths this season, the situation is dire, especially as less than 50% of U.S. children have received the flu vaccine, marking the lowest rate in five years. Hospitals are expanding capacity and bracing for more cases as children return to school after the holidays.

health2 years ago

"Understanding Persistent Post-Viral Symptoms: From Long COVID to Long Flu"

Long COVID, long flu, and long cold refer to lingering symptoms that persist for more than three months after the initial respiratory infection. While long COVID has been recognized for some time, the concept of long flu and long cold has only recently been identified, with symptoms including a lingering cough, trouble sleeping, and issues with taste and smell. There is no set treatment plan for these long-term illnesses, and they are managed by treating symptoms. Experts recommend seeing a doctor if symptoms persist beyond three months to rule out secondary infections and to receive proper evaluation and care.

health2 years ago

"Respiratory Illness Triple Threat: COVID, Flu, and RSV Spur Mask Mandates and Concerns Nationwide"

Massachusetts is experiencing a significant rise in seasonal respiratory illnesses, with high levels of flu and moderate levels of COVID-19 reported. Health officials are emphasizing the importance of vaccinations and masking, especially as some hospitals see an increase in severely ill children with the flu. Nearly 17% of emergency department visits in the state were for acute respiratory illnesses, with the flu rated as "very high" in several regions. Mass General Brigham is reinstating mask requirements for healthcare staff and advising patients and visitors to do the same. People with severe symptoms are advised to visit the emergency department, while those with milder symptoms should consult their doctor or an urgent care clinic.

health2 years ago

"Texas Battles Surge in Respiratory and Infectious Diseases, Including Flu and COVID-19"

North Texas is experiencing a surge in respiratory illnesses, with rising cases of COVID-19, flu, and RSV. Children's Health in Dallas reported a significant number of flu cases during Christmas week, and COVID hospitalizations have also increased. Health officials attribute the spike to school breaks and lower flu vaccination rates among children. The DFW Hospital Council President emphasized the importance of vaccinations and preventative measures like hand washing and mask-wearing in high-risk situations. The CDC has identified the JN.1 variant as the most common COVID strain in the U.S., with symptoms similar to previous strains.

health2 years ago

"Mask Mandates Reinstated in Hospitals Across NYC and Massachusetts Amid Respiratory Illness Surge"

New York City's public hospital system has reinstated mask mandates due to a spike in COVID-19, flu, and other respiratory illnesses. The mandate, effective just after Christmas, applies to all individuals entering NYC Health + Hospitals facilities, including hospitals, health centers, and nursing homes. The decision comes as the city experiences a "very high" level of respiratory illness, with the hardest-hit areas being East New York, Mott Haven/Port Morris, and Silver Lake/St. George. While private hospital systems have not yet implemented similar mandates, the low uptake of the bivalent booster shot, with only 18% of New Yorkers having received it, may be contributing to the increase in cases.