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The United States has experienced a surge in seasonal virus activity. Tens of thousands of people are being admitted to hospitals for respiratory illnesses each week. Data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals that during the week ending December 23rd, over 29,000 patients were admitted with Covid-19. An additional 15,000 were admitted with the flu, and thousands more still came in with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
Wastewater analysis indicates high levels of Covid-19 transmission nationally, surpassing last year's figures. Emergency department visits have risen by 12%, and hospitalizations increased by approximately 17% in the most recent week. Flu activity is also on the rise, with an estimated 7 million illnesses, 73,000 hospitalizations, and 4,500 deaths this season.
Despite the availability of vaccines against major viruses, the uptake remains low. Only 19% of adults and 8% of children have received the latest Covid-19 vaccine. Flu vaccine coverage is also below optimal levels. Experts emphasize the importance of vaccination to fight respiratory viruses, masking, and timely treatment.
Hospitals in several states are reintroducing mask requirements due to the surge in respiratory illnesses. Although national hospital bed capacity is considered "stable," the increasing prevalence of respiratory viruses has prompted stricter measures.
While the seasonal respiratory virus activity is challenging to predict, CDC forecasts suggest that hospitalization rates will remain elevated for weeks. Experts stress the importance of protective measures, including vaccination, mask usage, and staying home if sick. This will help mitigate the impact of the ongoing surge in respiratory illnesses.
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