Tag

Respiratoryviruses

All articles tagged with #respiratoryviruses

health2 years ago

"Post-Holiday Surge in Respiratory Illnesses Raises Coinfection Concerns"

The U.S. is experiencing a surge in both COVID-19 and flu cases this winter, raising concerns about the risk of coinfection, which remains rare according to CDC data. Experts emphasize the importance of vaccinations and the body's immune response, known as viral interference, which may reduce the likelihood of contracting both viruses simultaneously. Treatments for both illnesses are primarily supportive, but specific antivirals like Paxlovid for COVID-19 and Tamiflu for flu are available for high-risk individuals. Health officials recommend staying up to date with COVID and flu vaccines and testing for both viruses if symptomatic, especially for those at high risk.

health2 years ago

"Respiratory Illnesses Surge Post-Holidays, Prompting Mask Mandates and Concerns"

In the St. Louis area, there is an uptick in COVID-19 and flu cases, but hospital officials are not overly concerned, viewing the situation as a return to pre-pandemic normalcy. Despite the increase in respiratory virus cases, including RSV, rhinovirus, and enterovirus, the impact on healthcare systems is less severe than in previous years, largely due to vaccinations and prior exposure to the virus. Hospitals are busy, but wait times are typical for the season. New immunizations against RSV for infants and vaccines for pregnant women are now more available, potentially mitigating the spread. Public awareness and preventative measures learned during the pandemic are also contributing to better management of the spread of respiratory illnesses.

health2 years ago

"North Carolina Faces Unprecedented Rise in Respiratory Illnesses Amid Holiday Season"

North Carolina is experiencing a significant increase in hospitalizations due to the flu, with a record number of 1,055 people hospitalized as of the week ending December 30th, surpassing last year's figures. COVID-19 cases are also on the rise, with wastewater particle levels at their highest since January 2023 and hospitalizations up by 30% in a week. Health officials are urging early testing and treatment, especially for high-risk individuals, and are advocating for flu and COVID-19 vaccinations. Hospitals are adjusting policies, such as visitor restrictions, to manage the surge. The CDC has recommended RSV vaccines for certain populations, and health systems are adapting to the increased demand for care.

health2 years ago

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

New York City public hospitals have reinstated indoor mask mandates in patient treatment areas due to a rise in respiratory viruses, including COVID-19 and the flu. The mandate affects all facilities run by NYC Health + Hospitals. Despite a recent increase in respiratory illnesses, hospitals are not currently overwhelmed. The move aligns with similar precautions taken by hospitals in at least six other states as respiratory infections continue to rise across the country.

health2 years ago

"Respiratory Illness Surge Sweeps Across the U.S. Amidst COVID, Flu, and RSV Outbreaks"

Health experts warn of a potential COVID-19 surge as cases and hospitalizations increase, with a new variant, JN.1, possibly becoming dominant. This variant is highly transmissible and may evade immunity from past infections, though updated vaccines seem effective in preventing severe illness. Alongside COVID-19, flu infections are rising, and there are reports of antiviral drug shortages. Experts encourage testing for COVID-19 in the presence of respiratory symptoms and emphasize the importance of staying up-to-date with vaccinations to protect against various respiratory illnesses.

health2 years ago

"Triple Threat: COVID, Flu, and RSV Cases Surge Across the US Post-Holidays"

The CDC reports a nationwide increase in respiratory viruses, including a spike in COVID-19 cases in Minnesota, attributed to the new JN.1 strain and recent holiday gatherings. Emergency room visits and hospitalizations have risen, but Minnesota sees a lower trend in virus activity compared to last year, with flu hospitalizations significantly down. Health officials emphasize the importance of mitigation efforts like handwashing and staying home when sick to control the spread.

health2 years ago

"US Sees Surge in Respiratory Virus Cases, CDC Reports"

The U.S. is experiencing a significant surge in respiratory virus activity, including COVID-19, the flu, and RSV, with hospitalizations on the rise. The CDC reports high levels of these viruses, with increased emergency department visits and hospitalizations. Despite the availability of vaccines for these major viruses, vaccination rates remain low. Health experts are urging the public to take preventive measures such as vaccination and masking, especially as hospitals in some states reinstate mask mandates due to the surge. Treatments are available for those who become infected, and the CDC anticipates high hospitalization rates to continue for weeks.

health2 years ago

"Surge in Respiratory Virus Cases Across the U.S., CDC Reports"

The United States is experiencing a significant rise in respiratory virus activity, including COVID-19, flu, and RSV, with high hospitalization rates and increased emergency department visits. Despite the availability of vaccines for these major viruses, uptake remains low. Health officials emphasize the importance of vaccination, mask-wearing, and timely treatment with antivirals like Paxlovid and Tamiflu to prevent severe illness and save lives. Hospitals in several states have reinstated mask mandates to cope with the surge. The CDC warns that the situation may worsen post-holidays and urges high-risk individuals to take preventive measures seriously.