Dr. Mandy Cohen, Director of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), briefed a congressional subcommittee on Thursday, providing crucial updates on the surge of respiratory illnesses in the US, notably those attributed to the flu, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
Cohen highlighted the current peak of RSV, particularly in the southern regions of the US, per CNN. Simultaneously, the flu season is commencing, with an anticipated acceleration throughout December and January.
Although COVID-19 levels are relatively low, it remains the predominant cause of new respiratory hospitalizations and deaths, accounting for approximately 15,000 hospitalizations and 1,000 deaths per week.
Emphasizing the significance of vaccination against these respiratory viruses, Cohen urged Americans to promptly get vaccinated.
She underscored the critical need for testing and early treatment if symptoms arise, given that antiviral drugs are most effective in the initial stages of infection.
A young girl receives a band-aid after getting an H1N1 flu vaccination during a clinic at the Bill Graham Civic Auditorium on December 22, 2009, in San Francisco, California.
Current vaccination rates indicate that over a third of adults and children have received their flu shot. However, only 16% of adults and 6% of children have received the COVID-19 vaccine. Additionally, about 15% of older adults (60 and older) have been vaccinated against RSV.
The southern and western regions of the US are witnessing heightened respiratory virus activity. Warren County in Ohio reported an "outbreak" of pediatric pneumonia cases, contributing to the three-quarters capacity of pediatric hospital beds nationwide, the highest since mid-December 2022.
Experts Urge Public to Take Precautions
Pediatric hospitalizations due to respiratory viruses, including COVID-19, flu, and RSV, have been increasing. RSV is emerging as the most common among children. The CDC is closely monitoring the situation, urging vigilance during this respiratory virus season.
As flu season intensifies, Alicia Budd, leading the CDC's flu surveillance team, noted "continued increases" in flu cases. USA Today reported that health experts recommend vaccinations for both influenza and COVID-19, given the overlapping symptoms. One infection can heighten susceptibility to others by weakening the immune system.
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In addition to vaccinations, health experts advise adopting six healthy habits to stay safe during this season:
- Get the COVID-19 and flu vaccines.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when sneezing or coughing.
- Stay home if you feel symptomatic to prevent the spread of the illness.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
New Swine Flu Strain Detected in Human
Meanwhile, the UK Health Security Agency reported the detection of a new swine flu type, A (H1N2)v, clade 1b.1.1, in a human, according to Fortune. Although the patient recovered fully, health authorities are investigating the possibility of community spread, emphasizing the need for swift action to trace contacts and assess the risk to humans.
As the nation faces this surge in respiratory illnesses, health officials stress the importance of vaccination, preventive measures, and early intervention to mitigate the impact of these viruses.
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