It’s winter, the cozy season filled with crackling fireplaces and indoor gatherings. However, along with the winter season comes a wave of respiratory illness, as is the case every year. Despite nearly four years since the pandemic emerged, the virus is still not done with us.

In recent weeks, there has been a sharp increase in emergency room visits and hospitalizations for covid-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). This trend is gaining momentum and causing concern.

Here are some key points to be aware of during this time:

1. What’s Circulating Now?
The covid virus is continuously evolving, and a new variant called JN.1, which is a descendant of omicron, is rapidly spreading. It represents between 39% to half of the cases. Fortunately, the updated vaccines, rapid tests, and medical treatments are effective against this variant. According to the CDC, it does not pose any additional risks to public health beyond what other recent variants have shown. However, new covid hospitalizations are trending upward, surpassing last December’s numbers. The levels of virus in wastewater are also very high, indicating a significant spread of infections. Additionally, influenza and RSV continue to circulate and cause hospitalizations.

2. But No Big Deal, Right?
Compared to previous winters, the situation is better in terms of deaths and severe illnesses. Vaccines and prior infections have provided some level of immunity and reduced the severity of the illness. Hospitalizations and deaths are significantly lower compared to last winter. However, the definition of “mild” illness varies, and even mild cases can make individuals miserable for several days.

3. How Will This Affect My Day-to-Day Life?
If you experience symptoms of the current covid variants, such as a runny nose, sore throat, cough, fatigue, fever, and muscle aches, it is important to stay home. At-home covid test kits can be helpful in determining if you have covid, and it is recommended to perform multiple tests over a certain time period. High-risk individuals, including the very young, older adults, pregnant individuals, and those with compromised immune systems or underlying diseases, are more susceptible to severe illness. While mask-wearing has decreased, it may become more common in public spaces. Health officials and hospitals in some states have reinstated mask mandates. The most protective masks are N95, KN95, and KF94, while cloth and paper masks are less effective. If you haven’t been vaccinated or received a flu shot, it is not too late to do so. Certain populations are also recommended to receive vaccines and monoclonal antibodies for RSV.

4. Aren’t We All Going to Get It? What About Repeat Infections?
While many people have had covid at least once, repeat infections are common. There is still a debate over whether repeat infections pose a smaller or larger risk of serious health effects. However, two research efforts suggest that repeat infections may increase the chances of developing serious illness or long covid. Vaccination is generally considered protective against these risks. It is important to take preventive steps such as getting vaccinated and wearing masks in higher-risk situations.

In conclusion, respiratory illnesses such as covid, influenza, and RSV are on the rise during this winter season. While the situation has improved compared to previous winters, it is crucial to take necessary precautions, get vaccinated, and stay informed to protect ourselves and others.

[Julie Appleby]