Expert warns of COVID, flu and RSV surge in winter

STORY: In particular, RSV infections among young children are reportedly filling some U.S. hospitals to capacity.

Part of the increase in RSV cases is due to the relaxation of COVID-precautions, such as masking and social distancing, which reduced rates of both RSV and flu during the pandemic, said Dr. Peter Hotez, a Texas Pediatrician.

RSV rates were unusually low in the fall/winter of 2020-2021 but increased dramatically starting in Spring 2021 and have spiked since late August.

Hotez added that infection with RSV can be prevented in the same way one would ward off any virus: staying away from people who are sick, ensuring the best possible ventilation when you are indoors, wearing a high quality mask, and keeping your hands as clean as possible.