Dr. Peter Hotez, a pro-lockdown virologist, warns that the Trump administration will face multiple infectious disease threats, including a mystery respiratory virus in Congo that has killed nearly 150 people. The outbreak in Congo, affecting mostly teenagers, has prompted a 'maximum alert' and the involvement of UN health officials. Hotez highlights the risks of emerging diseases like bird flu, measles, and whooping cough in the U.S., exacerbated by declining vaccination rates, and urges against cutting disease research funding. The Trump administration's stance on health funding and vaccine skepticism is also noted.
U.S. hospitals are reinstating mask mandates and visitor restrictions due to a surge in flu and COVID-19 cases post-holidays. Despite a potentially less deadly season, health officials anticipate significant hospitalizations and deaths. New York City, Los Angeles, and Massachusetts hospitals have implemented stricter measures. The CDC encourages vaccinations and treatment, noting lower vaccination rates this year and monitoring new COVID-19 variants like JN.1. Hospitals are adapting to the increased prevalence of respiratory illnesses, with some, like Hillsdale Hospital in Michigan, limiting visitors to protect vulnerable patients.
U.S. hospitals are reinstating mask mandates and visitor restrictions due to a surge in flu and COVID-19 cases post-holidays. Despite a potentially less deadly season, health officials anticipate significant hospitalizations and deaths. New York City, Los Angeles, and Massachusetts hospitals have implemented stricter measures. The CDC encourages vaccinations and precautions, noting lower vaccination rates this year. A new COVID-19 variant, JN.1, is under observation, but current vaccines and treatments remain effective. Hospitals are also adapting to the simultaneous spread of multiple respiratory illnesses, including RSV, especially among children.
U.S. hospitals are reinstating mask mandates and visitor restrictions due to a surge in flu and COVID-19 cases post-holidays. Although the season is not expected to be as deadly as previous ones, significant hospitalizations and deaths are anticipated. New York City, Los Angeles, and Massachusetts hospitals have implemented such measures. Health officials encourage vaccinations and caution as flu cases, caused by a less severe strain, are on the rise, and COVID-19 cases are less dramatic but more severe. Vaccination rates are lower this year, and a new COVID-19 variant, JN.1, is being monitored. The CDC advises the public to use their website for local guidance on precautions.
South Carolina is experiencing a significant viral outbreak, with the state reporting the highest level of flu activity in the region, compounded by rising COVID-19 cases and other viruses. Low vaccination rates are a contributing factor, with only 22.68% of South Carolinians having received the flu shot and even lower rates for the updated COVID-19 booster. Public health officials are concerned about vaccine hesitancy, which has increased since the COVID-19 pandemic. Hospitals are seeing a rise in admissions due to these viral infections, and there are reports of co-infections with multiple viruses, although these are rare. Health experts emphasize that it is not too late to get vaccinated, as the current flu vaccine is considered a good match for circulating strains.
U.S. hospitals are reinstating mask mandates and visitor restrictions due to a surge in flu and COVID-19 cases post-holidays. New York City has mandated masks in public hospitals, with similar actions in Los Angeles and Massachusetts. Health officials anticipate a peak in infections by the end of January, with a moderately severe season expected. Vaccination rates are lower this year, with only 44% of adults having received flu shots and 19% an updated COVID-19 shot. The CDC encourages vaccinations and treatment, while monitoring new COVID-19 variants and RSV cases.
Northeast Ohio is experiencing a significant surge in illnesses, with flu, COVID, and RSV reaching high levels of infection. The CDC reports increased emergency room visits and deaths, particularly among those with pre-existing conditions. The rise in cases is partly attributed to lower vaccination rates for both flu and COVID, with only 43.8% of adults vaccinated for the flu and 18.9% for the updated COVID booster.
