A concerning trend is unfolding across the United States as 40 states report high or very high levels of illness, according to government health data. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a surge in flu cases, with several seasonal strains driving the outbreaks.
Pediatric hospitals have been flooded with patients infected with RSV, but influenza is now also making headlines. “Influenza has joined the party,” said Dr. Jason Newland, an infectious diseases specialist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Meanwhile, norovirus is spreading rapidly in parts of the country, including the Chicago area, stressing local hospitals.
“We’re seeing a lot of admissions coming in right now,” said Dr. Whitney Lyn, lead family medicine physician at Sengstacke Health Center. “It’s alarming and we need to take precautions.”
Key symptoms of viruses currently circulating include:
* COVID-19: cough, sore throat, runny nose, fatigue, fever, and shortness of breath
* RSV: runny nose, congestion, decrease in appetite, coughing, sneezing, fever
* Norovirus: vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, body ache, headache, fever, dehydration
The CDC is also monitoring reports of strep throat and whooping cough, as well as a rare bird flu variant. With 66 reported human cases last year, the risk to the public remains low due to sporadic outbreaks linked to direct contact with infected animals.
As health experts urge caution, it’s essential for individuals to be aware of the current viral illnesses and take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of illness.
Source: https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/what-virus-is-going-around-which-illnesses-are-circulating-most-right-now/3637491