What's the data say? COVID, flu, RSV spikes rampant in the region

Kaitlyn McCormick, Cherry Hill Courier-Post
·3 min read
1

Wondering why so many people have been coming down with illness?

This season is presenting a new challenge: simultaneous rises in COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and influenza.

"We've never really had to grapple with all three simultaneously," said Virtua Health's Chief of Infectious Diseases, Dr. Martin Topiel. "We're really seeing all three very intensely."

How many people are sick?

Reports to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show New Jersey, along with many other states, categorized as "very high" for respiratory illness activity, as of Jan. 5.

Data reported to the CDC ranks New Jersey as "very high" for respiratory illness activity.
Data reported to the CDC ranks New Jersey as "very high" for respiratory illness activity.

According to the CDC, the amount of respiratory illnesses, classified as a fever plus cough or sore throat, causing people to seek medical attention is elevated or increasing in most areas nationally. Emergency room visits for flu and COVID-19 are also elevated in all age groups and increasing in all age groups except for school-aged children nationally.

How many people have RSV, flu, COVID in South Jersey

Hospitals across South Jersey have seen upticks in respiratory illness activity.

Topiel said that in terms of the coronavirus, the newest dominant variant, JN.1, is contributing to more aggressive transmission and sickness.

But COVID-19 isn't the only concern.

"Flu can be just as dangerous as COVID," said Topiel.

Based on respiratory illness statistics from the CDC, December saw a sharp uptick in influenza testing at the national level, making up 17.5% of tests positive by the end of the month, compared to COVID-19's 12.4%.

According to data from the New Jersey Department of Health, influenza levels were reported as high across the state as of Dec. 30.

Influenza totals in New Jersey from weeks ending Oct. 7 through Dec. 30 2023.
Influenza totals in New Jersey from weeks ending Oct. 7 through Dec. 30 2023.

Between the weeks ending Oct. 7 and Dec. 30, the state reported 25 total influenza outbreaks and 27,167 cases reported through rapid and PCR testing.

Colder, drier weather consistent with the winter season can contribute to some of the development of illnesses, as well as settings like parties and gatherings that can increase risk of exposure to respiratory illness, said Topiel.

Other hospitals in the area, Cooper Health and the Inspira, have implemented mask mandates as a measure to combat respiratory viruses.

Cooper University Health Care cited COVID spikes as a reason for the mandate, while Inspira did not credit any one specific virus.

More: Some South Jersey hospitals bring back mask rules as flu, RSV, COVID on rise

When to go to the emergency room with respiratory illness

While respiratory illnesses and reports of flu-like-illnesses are surging, patients should be selective about when to go to the emergency room.

According to Virtua Health, its emergency departments have averaged 18% to 25% greater patient volume than projected from late November to early January. In December 2023, emergency visits related to respiratory illnesses rose as much as 30% by the end of the month.

Because of the increase in emergency room traffic, Topiel recommends patients refresh themselves on when an ER trip is necessary.

"We have all sorts of options available to us," Topiel said, recommending most highly the virtual and telehealth consultations available for those who may be sick but not in an emergent capacity.

Symptoms like shortness of breath and high fevers, however, should be evaluated in the emergency room.

How do you prevent winter sickness?

People are wearing masks in public to protect against COVID-19.
People are wearing masks in public to protect against COVID-19.

"Even simple masking is beneficial," said Topiel on how to prevent the spread of these winter ailments.

He also emphasized that vaccinations are still effective for RSV, flu and COVID-19 and said that based on the latest data, the current influenza vaccine decreased hospitalization by 50%.

In addition to breaking out the masks, staying healthy means going back to the basics: frequent handwashing and covering your coughs.

Those who do find themselves ill should isolate from others, even within their own household.

Kaitlyn McCormick writes about trending issues and community news across South Jersey for the Courier Post, The Daily Journal and the Burlington County Times. If you have a story she should tell, email her at kmccormick@gannett.com. And subscribe to stay up to date on the news you need.

More: Do you know how to drive in the snow? Here's some tips to help with the wintry weather

More: Hotel developer has eyes on Deptford, but residents have reservations

This article originally appeared on Cherry Hill Courier-Post: What to know about rises COVID, flu and RSV, and how to stay healthy