As the winter months settle in, the annual flu season is accompanied by a surge in various respiratory illnesses, including influenza, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). This year, the season feels even more intense with the addition of a highly contagious stomach bug, norovirus, making its rounds across the country.
According to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), influenza cases have spiked significantly since December, with a sharp increase in positive test results. The CDC has categorized the activity levels of respiratory illnesses as “high,” a trend expected to continue through the winter months. With flu, RSV, and COVID-19 circulating simultaneously, it feels as if illness is everywhere.
Dr. William Schaffner, an expert in preventive medicine and infectious diseases at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, confirmed this uptick, describing the flu season as “roaring along.” Although COVID-19 remains a consistent concern, the number of flu cases has outpaced COVID-19 hospital visits so far this season. Dr. Schaffner notes that COVID-19 has now become part of the seasonal viral ecology, with predictable peaks in both summer and winter, unlike the more concentrated spikes of flu and RSV.
The holiday season, with its travel and gatherings, likely contributed to the rapid spread of these viruses. This year, however, there’s an added complication: norovirus, often associated with cruise ships, is making waves in communities nationwide. In December alone, there were 91 reported norovirus outbreaks, far surpassing the usual number for that time of year.
Unlike respiratory illnesses, which primarily affect the lungs and airways, norovirus is a gastrointestinal infection that causes severe stomach distress, including vomiting and diarrhea. Known colloquially as “winter vomiting disease,” it spreads quickly in close-quarters environments like schools, nursing homes, and cruise ships. Dr. Judith O’Donnell from the University of Pennsylvania suggests that a new strain of norovirus, GII.17[P17], has contributed to an uptick in outbreaks this year. The virus spreads easily through contaminated food, water, and surfaces, making it especially hard to avoid during high-traffic winter months.
Though norovirus is mainly a stomach bug, its swift transmission means that crowded places, such as schools and nursing homes, are often hotspots for outbreaks. This strain is more resilient than past versions, surviving on surfaces and remaining infectious for longer periods. While hand sanitizers can be helpful against respiratory viruses, they are less effective against norovirus, making thorough handwashing crucial to preventing infection.
Among the most vulnerable to respiratory illnesses are young children and older adults. RSV, for instance, is a leading cause of hospitalization in young children, particularly those under six months old. While RSV typically presents as a mild cold in healthy adults, it can lead to severe respiratory conditions like bronchiolitis in infants. Dr. Dean Winslow, a Stanford infectious disease expert, emphasizes the importance of closely monitoring young children for symptoms such as wheezing and difficulty breathing, as these can signal severe RSV infection.
With such a wide range of illnesses circulating, it’s more important than ever to take preventive measures. For flu and COVID-19, vaccines remain the most effective defense. COVID-19 and flu antiviral treatments, like Paxlovid and Tamiflu, can help reduce the severity and duration of illness if administered early. RSV vaccines are available for certain high-risk groups, though they are not yet widely accessible.
In addition to vaccination, adopting healthy habits can significantly reduce your risk of infection. Regular handwashing, wearing a well-fitting mask in crowded spaces, and avoiding gatherings when feeling sick are essential steps. Dr. O’Donnell also advises staying home if you’re unwell to prevent the spread of illness to others.
Though the winter season may feel overwhelming due to the increase in viral activity, it’s important to remember that these trends are not unprecedented. Aside from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the patterns of flu and RSV surges in winter are typical. By taking the necessary precautions, such as vaccination, hand hygiene, and limiting exposure in crowded spaces, we can minimize our chances of falling ill during this challenging season.
In summary, with flu, RSV, and COVID-19 circulating in high numbers and norovirus outbreaks on the rise, the best course of action is to stay vigilant. Protect yourself and others by staying informed, following preventive measures, and getting vaccinated. This winter, let’s take control of our health and make “sick season” a little more manageable.
