Winter Virus Season: What You Need to Know
As the winter months approach, it’s natural to feel like you’re surrounded by sniffles and coughs. However, according to new government data, flu season activity is still relatively low in many parts of the U.S. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that as of last week, flu activity was high in only four states: Colorado, Louisiana, New Jersey, and New York, while most other states experienced minimal or low activity.
Seasonal Respiratory Viruses to Watch
Several diseases tend to peak during the winter months due to indoor gatherings that facilitate the spread of germs. These include not only colds and flu but also norovirus, a highly infectious cause of vomiting and diarrhea. Norovirus cases have been trending upward over the past month. Here are three seasonal respiratory viruses that experts are keeping a close eye on:
Experts are closely monitoring the flu, particularly after last season’s high hospitalization rates and child flu deaths. This season’s first pediatric flu death was reported recently, and there are concerns that this winter might be severe. One type of flu virus, A H3N2, has historically caused the most hospitalizations and deaths in older people, and it’s the most frequently reported type so far this season.
RSV and COVID-19: What to Expect
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of cold-like symptoms, but it can be dangerous for infants and the elderly. RSV seasons typically peak by December or January, but this year’s season seems to be starting later than usual. However, relatively new vaccines may be helping to mitigate the spread of RSV. In 2023, the government licensed new RSV vaccines for pregnant women and older people, as well as injections of laboratory-made versions of antibodies for infants.
COVID-19 activity is currently relatively low, with indicators down from a summer peak. The CDC has published research showing that the COVID-19 vaccine can keep kids from developing severe illness, with effectiveness rates of 76% among children nine months to 4 years and 56% among kids five to 17 years. Despite this, few people are getting the shot this year, with only about 7% of children and 15% of adults having received this season’s version of the COVID-19 vaccine.
For more information on the winter virus season, visit Here
Image Source: www.twincities.com
