Additional Coverage:
Respiratory illnesses, including the common cold, flu, COVID-19, and RSV, are widespread in the US, with high activity reported in several states.
New Hampshire has very high respiratory virus activity, while Arizona, Delaware, Georgia, Idaho, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, and Wisconsin have high activity.
The CDC notes an increase in COVID-19, flu, and RSV cases, leading to more emergency department visits and positive test results.
The flu has caused an estimated 3.1 million illnesses, 37,000 hospitalizations, and 1,500 deaths this season, with five pediatric deaths reported in December.
COVID-19 wastewater levels, emergency department visits, and positive test rates are rising, indicating a potential increase in cases during the winter months.
RSV is also on the rise, with increasing emergency department visits and hospitalizations among children and older adults.
Despite the availability of vaccines for flu, COVID-19, and RSV, vaccination coverage remains low, leaving many vulnerable to infection.