Is the US Facing a ‘Quademic’? Discover 4 Viral Infections and What You Need to Know

The CDC and wastewater data shows influenza A, COVID, RSV, and high norovirus levels are spreading rapidly in America right now.

Why it matters: All four diseases strike communities at the same time in what medical experts call the worst virus season ever.

The big picture: Many medical facilities now reach their limit of services because multiple outbreak threats force hospital management to suggest mask use among staff according to ABC News.

  • This sudden health crisis emerged from a leisurely beginning to the respiratory virus season.
  • Medical experts expected respiratory virus cases to reach their yearly peak on January 1 with patterns similar to past virus seasons. As Saskia Popescu explained from her role on APIC’s Emerging Infectious Diseases Task Force, the virus continues to spread later than expected.

The details: According to the CDC’s measures of respiratory virus activity levels flu is at peak stages across 34 states and the District of Columbia.

  • According to the Walgreens Flu Index based on retail prescription data from Jan. 18 the flu was strongest in Mississippi followed by Oklahoma and Texas.
  • New York City shows “very high” flu-like illness levels according to CDC data but Oklahoma City and other U.S. areas stand out as the busiest spots in the Walgreens index.

What we’re watching: Human metapneumovirus causes respiratory issues including cough, fever, stuffy nose and breathing troubles in both China and the United States.

  • COVID activity remains low unlike other viruses according to CDC statistics and medical experts stress there is no need to panic. Popescu from the University of Maryland School of Medicine teaches students about seasonal diseases that doctors know how to handle.
  • According to Popescu the classic prevention methods work best to fight HMPV and other prevalent viruses today.
  • Every method you take to stay safe including hand washing, proper respiratory etiquette, proper hygiene, and clean air movement helps reduce these illnesses said Popescu.

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