An infectious disease specialist from UCHealth, Dr. Michelle Barron, draws attention to the impending issue of multiple viral infections, including flu, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), peaking concurrently in the coming fall and winter seasons. An annual seasonal surge in respiratory viruses generally begins in November and continues into spring, with the flu provoking significant worry due to its burden on hospitalization rates. Australia’s recent winter season – witnessing the simultaneous escalation in these viruses – offers insights about a likely early onset of these infections, starting from early November.
The simultaneous rise of the three viruses in Australia resulted in severe distress, particularly among children who were impacted by the combination of flu and RSV. The most effective line of defense against these infections, Barron asserts, is adherence to basic infection prevention measures including hand sanitization, staying home when ill, and crucially, early vaccination, especially for children, parents, and grandparents.
The flu can occur throughout the year, but it usually peaks in December. However, this year, with cases expected to arise earlier, cautious monitoring of symptoms and case surges is advised. The flu shot, widely available from this week, is strongly recommended as it not only helps evade flu but may also prevent hospitalizations – a key objective in infection prevention.
RSV commonly affects young children – infants primarily – and leads to symptoms such as deep cough and breathing difficulties. It can also cause bronchitis and pneumonia in older individuals, those with underlying lung disorders, and those with weakened immunity.
Last year witnessed one of the worst RSV seasons, which started earlier than usual, putting immense pressure on Colorado hospitals. Fortunately, a long-awaited RSV vaccine for individuals aged 60 and above and pregnant women in their third trimester has recently gained FDA approval. This is particularly critical for newborns up to six to eight months – a group highly susceptible to the virus. These babies rely on antibodies from their mothers, passed through the placenta or breast milk, for immune protection. Therefore, a vaccinated mother could potentially shield her baby against RSV during periods of elevated exposure.
In addition, a new strain of COVID-19 – a descendent of the Omicron variant and equally transmissible – is circulating in the US. Despite not being a cause for increased concern regarding disease severity, this new variant has led to a slight hike in hospitalization rates. As of August 30, northern Colorado had 10 hospitalized COVID-19 patients. The monovalent COVID-19 vaccine, targeting the prevalent XBB.1.5 omicron variant, is encouraged and will be available by late September or early October.
COVID-19 drugs such as Paxlovid and remdesivir remain on offer to mitigate the risk of severe infections, while monoclonal antibodies have been deemed ineffective. People are urged to get their flu and COVID-19 jabs as soon as available, with potential for them to be taken together if necessary.
As we advance into the viral season, it is vital to distinguish symptoms of the common cold from those of the three notable respiratory viruses. Although there could be overlaps, unique characteristics often point towards specific viral infections. Therefore, using home COVID tests, PCR tests for utmost accuracy, and flu or RSV tests wherever necessary, is advised.
To conclude, maintaining sanitization, practicing proper hand hygiene, masking in large groups, and staying home when symptomatic are recommended, particularly for those with weakened immunity. It is vital to access information from authoritative sources, ensure factual correctness, and promote overall awareness about these viruses and their prevention.
Source: https://www.reporterherald.com/2023/09/05/we-know-that-vaccines-work-uchealth-experts-warn-of-multiple-viruses-circulating-in-colder-months/