Tis the season to get ill as an uptick of COVID, influenza, and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) case rise. Prior to the holidays, COVID-19 began to surge with the new variant JN.1 becoming most prevalent. Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also warned there was a rise in influenza and RSV cases.
Taking Preventative Steps
As many people prepared to celebrate Christmas and New Year, they took preventative steps to keep friends and family healthy. Especially, those who may be more at risk to catching a virus. However, some folks threw caution to the wind and held large festivities which came with a higher-risk exposure.
Furthermore, experts have cautioned those who participated in large or crowded indoor gatherings to avoid close contact with individuals who could be vulnerable to COVID, influenza, or RSV. For example, the elderly or those with weakened immune systems.
Moreover, a person could be infected with a virus but show no actual symptoms. Or it could be the early stages so flu, RSV, or COVID symptoms haven’t begun yet. Either way it is better to be safe than sorry when it comes to visiting someone susceptible to become ill.
Vaccinating Against Illnesses
In addition to taking aforementioned precautions, receiving vaccinations against these illnesses are recommended. However, the vaccination rates for COVID, RSV, and influenza remain low, according to the CDC. On Dec. 14, 2023, the CDC released a statement saying the agency predicted that millions of people may become sick from these viruses in the next month or two.
Furthermore, the agency added, “Getting vaccinated now can help prevent hospitalizations and save lives.” Additionally, the CDC informed individuals they could receive their COVID-19 vaccinations for no cost through the Bridge Access Program. A program developed for those who have no insurance or are underinsured to increase vaccination coverage.
New Hampshire State Epidemiologist Dr. Benjamin Chan said, “I think we’re in a very different spot with COVID-19, then we have been in years past and lots of tools in our toolbox to help prevent, but also treat infections from these major circulating respiratory viruses.” Recently, New Hampshire has seen a rise of influenza and COVID-19 cases.
Tools Being Used
To help people avoid getting sick or to feel better sooner, doctors have been utilizing medications like Tamiflu or Paxlovid. Furthermore, antivirals are often underused yet they are important for treating people with viruses like COVID-19. Additionally, they can help prevent those 65 years or older and other at high risk from hospitalization and death.
As such, the CDC have been working with the public and healthcare providers “to improve understanding of the benefits of antivirals.” Furthermore, the agency is also conducting research which will help “explain uptake and effectiveness of these drugs.”
Moreover, this research will also support “treatment access programs, developing clinical resources, and communicating with the public and public health partners.”
By Sheena Robertson
Sources:
CDC: What’s New
WMUR9 ABC: COVID-19 and influenza infections on the rise in New Hampshire
CNN: Did you gather in large groups for the holidays? A virus may be your post-holiday present
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Inset Image Courtesy of Julie from Wexford‘s Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
Inset Image Courtesy of Daniele Marzocchi‘s Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
