Chicago's Respiratory Virus Season in Overdrive

CHICAGO — As the temperatures drop, so do the defenses against a wave of respiratory illnesses sweeping through the city. Chicago is experiencing a significant increase in cases of flu and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) as we dive deeper into this year’s respiratory virus season.

Current data from the Chicago Department of Public Health reveals some alarming statistics: 18.3% of those tested for flu-like symptoms have received a positive diagnosis for influenza. Additionally, 14.1% tested positive for RSV, and 4.9% for COVID-19 as of recent reports released last Friday. “Flu and RSV are both significantly elevated in Chicago right now, and COVID levels are increasing as well,” warned city health department spokesperson Jacob Martin. “Respiratory virus season is in full swing.”

Local hospitals are responding to this surge by tightening safety measures. The University of Chicago Medicine has mandated that all staff wear masks in patient areas to protect vulnerable populations. Furthermore, OSF Healthcare, which operates Little Company of Mary Medical Center in Evergreen Park, has implemented visitor restrictions, allowing only two adults per patient at a time to limit exposure.

Michael Lin, an infectious disease physician at Rush Medical Center, emphasizes that this spike in respiratory illnesses is typical for this time of year. “Respiratory viruses tend to spike in the winter months due to increased indoor gatherings, where viruses spread more easily.” With the ongoing need for vaccine protection, Lin reminds the public that it’s not too late to get vaccinated for the flu or receive an updated COVID-19 booster.

The CDC has outlined specific recommendations for RSV vaccinations. Adults aged 75 and older, as well as those between 60-74 who are at increased risk, are urged to get vaccinated. Infants, who face heightened risks from RSV, can benefit from a maternal vaccine administered during pregnancy or an RSV antibody treatment given shortly after birth.

One crucial takeaway during this seasonal outbreak: “If you feel sick, stay home,” advises Lin. He stresses the importance of reducing the risk of spreading illnesses: “Going to events while feeling under the weather can exacerbate the situation. If your child is sick, keep them away from other children.”

While masking is recommended in crowded settings for those with underlying health conditions, others can choose based on personal preference. Fortunately, at-home testing kits for respiratory illnesses have become more accessible, allowing for quicker identification of infections.

Though flu and RSV are currently the primary concerns, the trajectory of COVID-19 remains uncertain. Lin highlights that the virus is adjusting to become a more routine element of the respiratory illness landscape but has yet to normalize its seasonal patterns. Unpredictable surges, as seen last summer, leave some uncertainty for the coming months.

As we head into the peak of respiratory illness season, which typically subsides by late April or early May, it's crucial for residents to stay informed and proactive. With the winter in full swing, the well-being of Chicagoans hangs in the balance among these circulating viruses. Stay vigilant, stay healthy, and don’t let the flu and RSV catch you off guard!