Flu Season Intensifies in the U.S. Amid Rising Infections

The U.S. is currently experiencing a significant flu season, with a surge in infections causing symptoms like cough, cold, fever, and sore throat across the country. Covid-19 and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) have been contributing to the rise in illnesses for several weeks, and now, influenza has added to the growing health concern.

According to recent government data, 40 states reported high or very high levels of illness last week. “There is a lot of flu out there,” said Carrie Reed from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Influenza, Covid-19, and RSV are all common respiratory infections caused by different viruses, but their symptoms often overlap, making it difficult to distinguish between them. Symptoms such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath are common across these illnesses.

In a recent update, the CDC confirmed a significant spike in Covid-19 activity, with the virus surging from low levels in most areas of the U.S. Seasonal influenza cases are also rising across the country. The CDC forecasted that Covid-19 cases would continue to increase in the coming weeks, following its typical winter trend.

Between December 21 and December 28, 2024, the Covid-19 test positivity rate rose slightly from 7% to 7.1%, while influenza’s positivity rate increased from 12% to 18.7%. The dominant strains currently circulating are Influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 and A(H3N2), but several flu strains are active. RSV positivity rates are particularly high in many areas, with children being most severely impacted, leading to an increase in emergency visits and hospitalizations. Older adults are also facing rising hospitalizations in several regions.

Despite the rising cases, vaccination rates for Covid-19, RSV, and the flu remain low.

Understanding the Infections:

RSV:

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) primarily affects the nose, throat, and lungs. It spreads through respiratory droplets from coughs, sneezes, or contact with contaminated surfaces. While most RSV infections are mild and resolve without treatment, they can be severe for infants, young children, and older adults. Common symptoms include runny nose, cough, fever, sneezing, and wheezing.

Flu:

Influenza (flu) is a respiratory illness caused by different strains of viruses. It spreads via coughs or sneezes and can result in seasonal flu, H1N1 (swine flu), or avian influenza. High-risk groups include individuals over 50, pregnant women, children, and those with chronic health conditions. Flu symptoms typically include fever, body aches, sore throat, cough, congestion, runny noseand in some cases, vomiting or diarrhea.

Covid-19:

Covid-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, is an infectious disease that spreads through respiratory droplets. It can range from mild to severe, and in some cases, it may lead to death. Symptoms can include dry cough, fever, fatigue, loss of taste or smell, shortness of breath, and digestive symptoms such as nausea or diarrhea.

Prevention Tips:

To minimize the risk of contracting seasonal infections, consider these precautions:

•Avoid sharing personal items like food, towels, or utensils unless they’ve been thoroughly cleaned.

•Regularly clean commonly touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, light switches, and phones.

•Wash dishes using hot water and soap, either by hand or in a dishwasher.

•Launder clothes with hot water and detergent, and wash your hands after handling soiled laundry.

•Wear disposable gloves when cleaning or handling potentially contaminated items.

Taking these preventive measures can help reduce the spread of seasonal illnesses and keep you and your family safe during this challenging flu season.