A warning has been issued by Lorain County Public Health after a concerning rise in respiratory illnesses prompted doctors to sound the alarm. According to data from EpiCenter, emergency room visits for coughs, fevers, and vomiting have increased by 70%, 60%, and 63% respectively over the past week.
The virus circulation is attributed to various factors including mycoplasma pneumoniae, pertussis, RSV, and the common cold. The surge in cases has led to a significant increase in both in-patient and out-patient visits at hospitals.
Cleveland Clinic’s Dr. Joseph Khabbaza notes that influenza-A is currently the biggest wave, but RSV and COVID-19 are also on the rise. The hospital is facing full emergency rooms with patients waiting hours for a bed due to staff working tirelessly to care for the sick.
Experts advise protecting oneself by avoiding crowds, staying home when ill, getting vaccinated against certain diseases, practicing good hygiene, hand-washing, cough etiquette, and ventilation. Individuals with compromised immune systems are encouraged to track their health closely but everyone should seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.
Those at risk include individuals unable to keep food and liquids down or experiencing breathlessness out of proportion, who may require hospitalization for IV fluids, supplemental oxygen, and imaging tests. Dr. Khabbaza warns people to be aware of their surroundings, practice self-protection, and avoid touching their eyes, nose, and mouth without proper hand sanitizing.
Source: https://fox8.com/news/local-rise-in-illness-prompts-warning-from-health-officials