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- Respiratory diseases like influenza, COVID-19, and RSV are currently experiencing a rise in cases across the United States, as reported by the CDC.
- Norovirus, infamous for its association with outbreaks on cruise ships, has also been linked to a significant number of recent cases.
- Young children and older adults represent the highest risk groups for severe respiratory illnesses that may lead to hospitalization.
Winter Illnesses on the Rise
As we head deeper into flu season, it might feel more like “sick season,” with a mix of respiratory viruses, including influenza, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), ramping up across the country.
Adding to the mix, a highly contagious stomach virus known as norovirus seems to be affecting many, making it feel like sickness is rampant among those you know.
The
“It’s certainly picking up steam,” remarked William Schaffner, MD, a professor specializing in preventive medicine and infectious diseases at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, during an interview with Healthline.
At the same time, norovirus—often referred to as “winter vomiting disease”—is causing a notable spike in outbreaks. In the first week of December, state health departments recorded
Despite the convergence of viral activities, this year’s trends seem consistent with those of years past, excluding the COVID-19 pandemic.
“It’s really not too much worse than other years,” stated Dean Winslow, MD, a professor of medicine and infectious disease specialist at Stanford Medicine, in his comments to Healthline.
Understanding the Flu and COVID-19 Dynamics
Flu season has long been a staple of the winter calendar, but everything shifted with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Since then, COVID-19 has continued to circulate, periodically flaring up alongside the flu, although not always on the same schedule.
“It’s now an integral part of our viral ecology, much like other viruses,” Schaffner explained.
However, unlike flu and RSV, COVID-19 has historically shown two peaks each year.
“There’s a smaller peak in the summer and then a larger one in the winter,” Schaffner clarified. “In contrast, influenza, RSV, and various common cold viruses typically see an increase during the winter months.”
While emergency department visits for COVID-19 remain low compared to flu and RSV this year, there is a noticeable uptick,
Judith O’Donnell, MD, section chief of Infectious Diseases at Penn Presbyterian Medical Center and a professor at the University of Pennsylvania, described the respiratory virus patterns as “very typical.”
RSV, known to lead to hospitalizations for up to
“Our primary concern is RSV in infants under six months, as they can become severely ill and develop bronchiolitis, which is an infection and inflammation of the small airways,” Winslow noted.
Norovirus: A Growing Concern
In addition to respiratory viruses, a new strain of norovirus, GII.17[P17], has been associated with a surge in outbreaks recently.
O’Donnell pointed out that this strain seems more prevalent this winter than in previous years.
Recent tests showed that
“Unlike respiratory viruses, norovirus is an intestinal virus affecting the stomach, intestines, and colon. It spreads extremely easily from person to person and can survive on surfaces for extended periods,” Schaffner explained.
This virus is particularly adept at spreading in confined spaces and has frequently been connected to outbreaks on cruise ships. In fact, the cruise industry recorded one of its worst years for norovirus outbreaks, with
“Similar high-risk environments include nursing homes, senior centers, schools, and prisons. Any enclosed or semi-enclosed setting can be a breeding ground for significant outbreaks,” Schaffner added.
Staying Safe This Season
To shield yourself from the various viruses circulating at this time, adopt a multi-faceted approach.
Getting vaccinated for both COVID-19 and the flu is the most effective way to prevent infection or mitigate symptoms if you do get sick. While there is a vaccine for RSV, it is currently
Your healthcare provider may also prescribe antiviral medications if you contract COVID-19 or influenza. For COVID-19, Paxlovid is commonly prescribed, while Tamiflu (oseltamivir) is used for influenza.
In addition to vaccination, practicing good hygiene can help prevent the spread of both respiratory viruses and norovirus.
“Wash your hands frequently. If you must go out and are worried about getting sick, consider wearing a well-fitted mask. Masking continues to be very effective,” O’Donnell advised. It’s also crucial to avoid large gatherings and stay home from work or school if feeling unwell to curb transmission.
While sanitizing gels, sprays, and foams can help reduce the spread of respiratory viruses, they are generally less effective against norovirus.
“Most hand sanitizers are alcohol-based, which are less effective against norovirus,” Winslow cautioned. “Thorough handwashing is your best defense against this resilient virus.”
As respiratory illnesses such as influenza, COVID-19, and RSV continue to climb in the U.S., the current figures are not drastically different from those of previous years.
Meanwhile, the new strain of norovirus, GII.17[P17], is causing numerous outbreaks. This highly contagious virus can lead to severe diarrhea and vomiting.
To minimize your risk of illness, it is advisable to stay up-to-date with vaccinations for both COVID-19 and the flu, regularly wash your hands, and avoid crowded places during peak illness season.
