Influenza Cases on the Rise While RSV Infections May Be Approaching Their Peak, According to US Health Authorities

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Health officials in the United States have reported an increase in influenza cases, while respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections, which can pose significant risks to children and older individuals, may be reaching their peak.

Dr. Mandy Cohen, the head of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), emphasized that COVID-19 continues to be the primary cause of hospitalizations and deaths among respiratory illnesses, with approximately 15,000 hospitalizations and 1,000 deaths occurring weekly.

Furthermore, the CDC is currently investigating reports of pneumonia outbreaks affecting children in two states. However, Dr. Cohen stated that there is no evidence to suggest that these cases are linked to any unusual factors.

Regarding the influenza season, early November saw seven states reporting high levels of flu-like illnesses. In the latest CDC report, this number has increased to 11 states, predominantly in the South and Southwest regions.

Over the past month, RSV infections have surged in certain areas of the country, leading to a significant strain on hospital emergency departments, particularly in Georgia, Texas, and other states. Dr. Cohen anticipates that the RSV season may be nearing its peak, likely within the next week.

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) typically causes mild cold-like symptoms but can be particularly perilous for infants and older individuals.

Dr. Cohen was questioned about reported pneumonia cases in children in Massachusetts and Warren County, Ohio, near Cincinnati. Pneumonia can result from various causes, including complications arising from COVID-19, influenza, or RSV.

In Ohio, health authorities have documented 145 cases of pneumonia since August, with the majority of affected children recovering at home. These illnesses were attributed to a range of common viruses and bacteria.

Massachusetts health officials noted a modest increase in pneumonia cases among children, which they deemed appropriate for the current season.

In a separate development, China recently experienced a surge in respiratory illnesses, which health officials in the country attributed to the flu and other established pathogens.

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This news report is brought to you by the Health and Science Department of The Big Big News, with support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group. The Associated Press (AP) assumes full responsibility for all content.

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More about Respiratory Illnesses

• CDC – Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Overview
• COVID-19 Information
• Flu Season Updates
• Pneumonia Information