Surge in Respiratory Viruses Strikes the US: What You Need to Know Before the Holidays!

As the holiday season approaches, the United States is grappling with an uptick in respiratory virus activity, presenting significant challenges for healthcare systems nationwide. Recent updates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicate that the levels of various respiratory viruses are now classified as moderate, with the flu seeing a notable increase, COVID-19 showing signs of resurgence, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) remaining at high levels.

A Forecast of the Winter Virus Season

The CDC forecasts that the current winter respiratory season may result in similar or even fewer peak hospitalizations for flu, COVID-19, and RSV compared to the previous year. If a new variant of COVID-19 with immune escape capabilities does not surface, experts predict that the peak impact will likely materialize in late December or early January.

Influenza Hotspots and Pediatric Threats

In its weekly FluView update, which encompassed data through December 13, the CDC reported a rise in test positivity rates, emergency department visits related to flu, and outpatient visits for flu-like symptoms. Influenza A is notably prevalent, accounting for nearly 97% of positive test results. Within this subset, the H3N2 strain constitutes 53.5% of the tests, while the 2009 H1N1 strain follows closely at 46.2%.

Hospitalizations have surged across all age groups, with seniors aged 75 and older experiencing the highest rates. Outpatient visits due to flu-like illness have climbed to 3.8%, exceeding the national baseline of 3.0% for the third consecutive week.

Alarmingly, two pediatric flu deaths have recently been reported. One of these involved an unsubtyped influenza A virus occurring the week ending December 7, while the other, linked to influenza B, was reported last week. To date, a total of four pediatric flu deaths have been documented this season.

COVID-19 Situation in the Midwest

In terms of COVID-19 tracking, the CDC has noted increases in wastewater levels and emergency department visits, indicating a potential rise in case numbers. COVID-19 detection remains at moderate levels nationally, with the Midwest showing particularly high rates.

Estimates reveal a sobering picture, with between 72,000 to 120,000 hospitalizations associated with COVID-19 occurring since October 1, alongside a death toll ranging from 8,200 to 13,000 during the same timeframe.

In a detailed analysis of variants, the CDC highlighted a significant rise in XEC variants, which now represent 45% of the total reported cases. Another variant of concern, LP.8.1, has increased from 4% to 8% over the past two weeks.

What Can You Do?

As the holiday season draws near, it's essential to stay informed about the state's health risks and adopt preventive measures. The CDC emphasizes the importance of vaccinations, including flu and COVID-19 shots, as a crucial step to protect yourself and others. Additionally, practicing good hygiene, such as handwashing and wearing masks in crowded indoor spaces, can help mitigate the spread of these illnesses.

Stay vigilant, stay safe, and enjoy a healthy holiday season!