The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a warning that respiratory virus activity, including flu, COVID-19, and RSV, remains at high levels across the country and is expected to persist for several more weeks.
According to CDC reports, as of mid-January 2025, the rate of medical visits due to respiratory illnesses caused by these viruses remains elevated nationwide. In the week ending January 11, the flu positivity rate reached 18.8%, with the influenza A strain being the dominant variant. COVID-19 cases also saw an uptick, with a positivity rate of 6.6%, and emergency room visits and hospitalizations for COVID-19 increased.
One of the primary concerns is the sharp rise in Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), particularly affecting young children and older adults. Hospitals are facing higher hospitalization rates among these vulnerable groups. The CDC recommends that those at higher risk, particularly individuals aged 75 and older or those between 60 and 74 with underlying health conditions, receive the RSV vaccine to reduce the risk of severe illness.
In addition, the CDC continues to advise the public to maintain preventive measures such as getting flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines, practicing good hand hygiene, and wearing masks when necessary. These measures are essential to reduce the spread of these viruses and protect public health during the peak of respiratory illness season.
With the virus activity expected to continue in the coming weeks, health authorities are closely monitoring the situation and implementing appropriate measures to safeguard the population.
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