A quadruple whammy of viruses – flu, COVID, norovirus, and respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV – is hitting the U.S. as the year comes to a close.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has already signaled that influenza A, COVID and norovirus (stomach flu) are on the rise across the U.S. Now, the risks of getting RSV – a virus that causes cold-like symptoms, affecting the breathing passages and lungs – is escalating, too.
Wastewater levels of RSV rose to “moderate” nationwide for the week ending Dec. 21, according to the CDC’s wastewater monitoring system. That’s the first time it has risen to that level since January 2024. Since then, RSV levels in wastewater had been “minimal” or “low,” according to the CDC.
The CDC monitors viruses in wastewater because it can provide insight into the prevalence of illnesses in the population. The last time RSV levels in the water were rated as “high,” was during the weeks ending Dec. 30, 2023 and Jan. 6, 2024, according to the CDC.
An estimated 22,000 to 45,000 people were hospitalized with RSV from Oct. 1-Dec. 7, the CDC says. That’s more hospitalizations than for the flu (15,000–33,000), but fewer than for COVID-19 (72,000–120,000), the CDC says.
“We expect to see an uptick in many of these conditions during the winter,” Noah Greenspan, program director of the Pulmonary Wellness & Rehabilitation Center in New York City, told USA TODAY recently. However, he added, “this also indicates that people may not be as careful as they need to be to keep themselves safe.”
COVID, flu and norovirus on the rise, CDC says
The level of the virus that causes COVID-19 is up in wastewater, too, according to the CDC’s National Wastewater Surveillance System. That viral activity level is currently “high” nationwide, for the week ending Dec. 21, up from “moderate” last week and “low” the week before.
Nationally, the amount of influenza A virus in the nation’s wastewater has risen, too, but remains in the moderate range, for the week ending Dec. 21, according to the CDC. “Seasonal influenza activity continues to increase across the country,” the CDC said.
The agency has also reported an increase in outbreaks of norovirus (stomach flu) – 91 outbreaks during the week of Dec. 5, up from 69 the previous week.
Where is risk of RSV highest in the US?
Across the U.S., 18 states and the District of Columbia have “high” or “very high” levels of RSV in their wastewater, according to the CDC’s monitoring system. Seven states have “moderate” RSV levels; 13 states have “low;” and 11 states have “minimal.” Montana and North Dakota had no data, the CDC said.
Here are the states with the highest RSV levels in wastewater, according to the CDC:
- Very high: Alaska, Connecticut, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts and Missouri (Missouri’s level is based on less than 5% of the population, the CDC says).
- High: Alabama, California, District of Columbia, Maryland, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, Texas, Tennessee. Levels for Pennsylvania, Virginia and Washington are based on less than 5% of the population.
What is RSV?
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes infections of the breathing passages and lungs. It’s so common that most children have been infected with the virus by age 2, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Anyone from infants to the elderly can catch RSV – there are RSV vaccines for older Americans and those who are pregnant to help protect newborns.
While most cases of RSV are mild, some can develop severe infections especially premature babies, infants, older adults, and those with heart and lung disease, or a weak immune system.
If RSV infection spreads, it can cause pneumonia or bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airway passages entering the lungs), the Mayo Clinic says.
Two years ago, RSV overwhelmed children’s hospitals. Each year, RSV leads to 58,000–80,000 hospitalizations among children younger than 5 years old and 100,000–150,000 hospitalizations among adults 60 years and older, according to the CDC,
RSV also accounts for about 2.1 million U.S. outpatient visits among children younger than 5 years old.
What are the symptoms of RSV?
In most cases, RSV symptoms resemble that of the common cold. Here’s what symptoms you may develop, according to the Cleveland Clinic:
- Sore throat
- Congestion
- Cough
- Fever
- Lack of energy
- Mild headache
- Runny nose
But more severe RSV infections can lead to one or more of these symptoms, the Cleveland Clinic says:
- Extreme tiredness or weakness
- Low appetite
- Persistent cough
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Bluish skin, lips or nails
- Sudden change in mental state
Infants can get severe cases of RSV, the Mayo Clinic advises. Additional signs and symptoms of severe RSV infection in infants include:
- Short, shallow and rapid breathing
- Struggling to breathe − chest muscles and skin pull inward with each breath
- Poor feeding
- Irritability
Think you have RSV? Here’s what to do
Mild cases of RSV usually go away within one to two weeks, the CDC says. While ill, the Cleveland Clinic recommends you treat yourself as if you had a cold:
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Get rest.
- Use a cool mist vaporizer.
- Take over-the-counter (OTC) medications and home remedies to manage a fever and pain with acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil). Note: Talk to your provider before taking any cold medications. Some may interact with other medications you’re taking.
- Continue taking prescription medications for asthma, COPD or other conditions as your provider recommends.
Severe cases of RSV may require hospital care. For instance, if you are having difficulty breathing or experiencing worsening symptoms, seek emergency care, the CDC suggests.
Especially seek immediate medical attention if your child – or anyone who’s ill with RSV – has difficulty breathing, a high fever, or a blue color to the skin, particularly on the lips and in the nail beds, the Mayo Clinic recommends.
RSV can be deadly. This fall, the CDC estimates 980 to 2,300 people have died from RSV during the period from Oct. 1-Dec. 7.
Sau 2 tháng sử dụng, mình viết 29bet reviews thật lòng: Nhà cái này có tỷ lệ cược tốt hơn 15% so với các trang khác! Đặc biệt tính năng ‘so sánh kèo’ giữa các nhà cái rất hữu ích. 29bet reviews
Logged into Raybet88 a few times. Seems alright, no real standouts, just you know, another place to try your chances. Here is the info for ya: raybet88
That’s a fascinating take on creative expression! It reminds me of platforms like Play Sprunki, where anyone can build beats-no musical background needed. It’s cool seeing accessibility prioritized in digital art! ✨
Thank you for your sharing. I am worried that I lack creative ideas. It is your article that makes me full of hope. Thank you. But, I have a question, can you help me? https://accounts.binance.info/pl/register-person?ref=UM6SMJM3
Just logged into bet23login. Pretty smooth process. Site is user-friendly, didn’t get lost at all. Could use a few more unique games, but the basics are covered. Here’s the link: bet23login
Thanks for sharing. I read many of your blog posts, cool, your blog is very good. https://www.binance.com/register?ref=IXBIAFVY
Thank you for your sharing. I am worried that I lack creative ideas. It is your article that makes me full of hope. Thank you. But, I have a question, can you help me? https://accounts.binance.info/de-CH/register?ref=W0BCQMF1
I don’t think the title of your article matches the content lol. Just kidding, mainly because I had some doubts after reading the article.
Your article helped me a lot, is there any more related content? Thanks! https://www.binance.com/register?ref=IXBIAFVY
Your article helped me a lot, is there any more related content? Thanks!
It’s interesting how online slots are evolving to cater to local preferences! Seeing platforms like lucky game ph prioritize Filipino players with quick registration & GCash is smart. A ₱100 minimum deposit is a nice touch too! 🤔
Smart bankroll management is key, regardless of the game! Seeing platforms like jilipark login prioritize security & fair play is a good sign – essential for building trust. Remember to play responsibly!
Thanks for sharing. I read many of your blog posts, cool, your blog is very good.
Thanks for sharing. I read many of your blog posts, cool, your blog is very good.
Interesting read! Competitive gaming’s appeal lies in skill and the analytics behind it. Seeing platforms like gperya game focus on that-plus secure registration-is smart for players in the Philippines & beyond. Good insights!
Interesting analysis! Seeing patterns is key, and responsible gaming platforms like arina plus com are prioritizing player well-being – good to see localized options like GCash too! It’s about smart play, not just luck.
Thank you for your sharing. I am worried that I lack creative ideas. It is your article that makes me full of hope. Thank you. But, I have a question, can you help me? https://www.binance.info/ru/register?ref=O9XES6KU
Thank you for your sharing. I am worried that I lack creative ideas. It is your article that makes me full of hope. Thank you. But, I have a question, can you help me? https://accounts.binance.info/ar/register?ref=PORL8W0Z
Can you be more specific about the content of your article? After reading it, I still have some doubts. Hope you can help me.
I?¦m not certain the place you’re getting your information, however great topic. I must spend some time finding out more or understanding more. Thank you for magnificent information I used to be looking for this information for my mission.
Your point of view caught my eye and was very interesting. Thanks. I have a question for you.
Your article helped me a lot, is there any more related content? Thanks!
Your point of view caught my eye and was very interesting. Thanks. I have a question for you.
Your point of view caught my eye and was very interesting. Thanks. I have a question for you.
Your article helped me a lot, is there any more related content? Thanks! https://accounts.binance.com/en/register?ref=JHQQKNKN
Excellent analysis of the viral landscape. As someone who monitors health trends across platforms, I’ve noticed how these seasonal patterns affect user engagement. The arena plus app community has seen increased discussions about wellness during this period. Staying informed while maintaining daily routines is key to navigating this quadruple threat effectively.
Your point of view caught my eye and was very interesting. Thanks. I have a question for you.
Smart risk management is key with any online entertainment, and fast transactions are a huge plus! Seeing platforms like ah88 ph app download apk prioritize security & quick GCash access is reassuring. Remember to gamble responsibly! 🤔
Thank you for your sharing. I am worried that I lack creative ideas. It is your article that makes me full of hope. Thank you. But, I have a question, can you help me?
Your point of view caught my eye and was very interesting. Thanks. I have a question for you. https://accounts.binance.info/register-person?ref=IXBIAFVY
Thanks for sharing. I read many of your blog posts, cool, your blog is very good.
Thank you for your sharing. I am worried that I lack creative ideas. It is your article that makes me full of hope. Thank you. But, I have a question, can you help me?
Thank you for your sharing. I am worried that I lack creative ideas. It is your article that makes me full of hope. Thank you. But, I have a question, can you help me?
Smart bankroll management is key in online gaming, especially with platforms offering so much variety! Seeing innovations like seamless mobile access (think 1xbet login casino) really helps players stay in control & enjoy the experience responsibly. It’s about access and smart play!
I don’t think the title of your article matches the content lol. Just kidding, mainly because I had some doubts after reading the article.
The data highlights how important self-care becomes during viral season. When recovering at home or avoiding crowds, having quality entertainment options helps maintain mental wellness. jl boss game offers engaging digital experiences that provide welcome distraction during those inevitable sick days. Stay healthy everyone!
Your point of view caught my eye and was very interesting. Thanks. I have a question for you. https://accounts.binance.info/kz/register-person?ref=K8NFKJBQ
With multiple viruses circulating this season, prioritizing wellness and stress relief becomes essential. For those recovering at home, quality entertainment can aid the healing process. jl77 online casino offers accessible gaming options when you need a mental break from feeling under the weather.
This platform transforms gambling into tactical warfare with PAGCOR licensing; navigate CS8 slots or live tables via cs8 com to deploy your strategy today.
Website: https://ao88.tv/
Thanks for sharing. I read many of your blog posts, cool, your blog is very good. https://accounts.binance.com/register/person?ref=QCGZMHR6
Can you be more specific about the content of your article? After reading it, I still have some doubts. Hope you can help me.
Thanks for sharing. I read many of your blog posts, cool, your blog is very good.
Thanks for sharing. I read many of your blog posts, cool, your blog is very good.