Respiratory virus spike in Rochester sparks urgent warning from health officials

Victoria E. Freile, Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
·2 min read

Monroe County health officials on Tuesday urged Rochester area residents to take precautions as the spread of respiratory viruses continue to spike.

As the holiday season is underway and gatherings are aplenty, Monroe County Public Health Commissioner Dr. Michael Mendoza encouraged people to take precautions to reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses including COVID-19, influenza and RSV. All three are steadily on the rise and are threatening to overwhelm local hospitals and other healthcare providers.

“By staying healthy or staying home when you are sick, you will help reduce the growing burden on our healthcare community," Mendoza said.

According to the county's Department of Public Health, the COVID-19 hospital admission level is medium, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended for people who have a higher risk for illness to wear a mask when in indoor public places.

Also, the number of influenza cases have more than doubled since the end of November - jumping from 136 cases on Nov. 25 to 273 cases on Dec. 2, according to health department data.

Two people have died from the flu to date this winter season, which started in early October. Both of those who died were adults - one was between 18 and 49 years old and the other was 85 or older, according to records

Also, since the start of October, 91 people - infants, children and adults - have been hospitalized for RSV, of which there have been more than 1,200 lab-confirmed cases tallied in Monroe County since early October, according to health department records.

How can you help avoid the spread of respiratory viruses?

  • Get vaccinated as soon as possible. It is not too late. Contact your healthcare provider or pharmacy to determine the appropriate vaccines for you and make an appointment.

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

  • Stay home if you are sick. Employers are encouraged to remain flexible to prevent contamination in the workplace.

  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue or sleeve, keep your hands away from your face, and wash your hands often. Regularly clean frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs.

  • Wear a close-fitting KN95 or N95 mask in indoor, public spaces. Masks are not effective when worn loosely or under the nose or chin.

What should you do if you feel sick?

Contact your health care provider and consider a virtual visit. Go to an urgent care center if needed. Avoid a hospital's emergency department as a first medical reference unless you are in need of immediate care.

This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Respiratory viruses spike in Rochester NY. What you should know