A surge in walking pneumonia cases is being reported by doctors in the Triangle region of North Carolina, particularly among children. Dr. Daniel Park, Medical Director of UNC Hospitals’ Children’s Emergency Department, attributes this to a lack of vaccination for respiratory viruses as winter approaches.
Unlike previous seasons, the number of COVID-19 and flu cases has decreased, but health officials are expecting them to rise. Data from the past two years shows that flu cases usually peak at this time. According to the CDC, more than 1 million Americans were hospitalized due to respiratory viruses last season, with over 100,000 deaths.
RSV is also showing an increase, making it uncertain when the flu will reach its peak. Dr. Park emphasizes the importance of vaccination for all individuals, including young children under eight months old.
Source: https://abc11.com/post/holiday-illnesses-doctors-see-unprecedented-number-walking-pneumonia-cases-triangle-hospitals/15625629