Respiratory illnesses on the rise in the US, but not yet at their peak
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed in a recent update that Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) activity remains high in numerous parts of the country, but it hasn't reached its zenith yet. According to the CDC, children's hospitals are already filling up at rates similar to last year's season, which could put added pressure on emergency rooms and hospitals, potentially delaying critical care for other patients.[1][3]
Hospital admissions for flu-like symptoms rapidly growing
CDC data reveals that more than 8 individuals per 100,000 population were admitted to hospitals due to respiratory viruses during the week ending November 25, 2024 – a 52% increase compared to the previous month. Although Covid-19 continues to account for the majority of these admissions, admissions related to the flu and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) are rising more quickly.[1]
Total respiratory infections in hospitals this season about half that of the previous year
Based on current statistics, the number of people hospitalized due to respiratory viruses during this quarter is roughly half what it was during the same period in 2024. Nevertheless, the most recent CDC projections indicate a strong likelihood that this season's hospital admissions for respiratory viruses will closely resemble those of the previous season and surpass the hospital admission rates seen before the pandemic.[1]
The CDC reiterates the importance of vaccinations
"Vaccination remains the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones against the severe consequences of respiratory illnesses," said the CDC. Despite the moderate vaccination rates, the CDC emphasized the need to boost these rates in light of the rising number of respiratory illnesses. On a Thursday update, the CDC stated that given the increasing number of respiratory infections, raising the vaccination rates is an urgent necessity.[1]
Southern states show the highest rates of respiratory illness concerns
The CDC data reveals that almost half of U.S. states exhibit high or moderate levels of respiratory illness concerns. For six consecutive weeks, the number of physician visits due to respiratory illnesses has exceeded the national baseline, and now, these figures surpass the rates in all 10 geographic regions.[1]
CDC estimates 3.7 million individuals will contract the flu during this season
The CDC estimates that at least 3.7 million individuals in the United States will fall prey to the flu during this season. Approximately 38,000 people are anticipated to be hospitalized, and 2,300 people are expected to lose their lives due to the respiratory illness.[1]
Throughout the nation, the concentration of Covid-19 activity in wastewater is high
Wastewater is a crucial indicator of the spread of Covid-19. The concentration of Covid-19 in wastewater is currently high across the nation, with the Midwest region exhibiting the highest concentrations. These concentrations are increasing rapidly, indicating that Covid-19 is spreading faster in the Midwest than during the Omicron wave two years ago.[1]
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Rising hospitalization rates mostly affect older adults and children
Among adult populations above 65 years of age, about 230 individuals per 100,000 people have been admitted to hospitals due to Covid-19, flu, or RSV since October 2024. The incidence rate among young children, particularly those under 5 years old, is also remarkably high. Approximately 33 individuals per 100,000 children under 5 have been hospitalized due to respiratory illnesses, with the vast majority of these cases caused by RSV.[1]
Beyond vaccinations, the CDC recommends testing, medications, and personal protection measures
In addition to vaccinations, the CDC recommends testing, medications, and personal protection measures like covering coughs and sneezes, staying home when sick, and improving ventilation to help reduce the spread and impact of respiratory illnesses.
"These protective tools – vaccines, tests, treatments, handwashing, ventilation, masks – all contribute to our ability to overcome this season," said CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky at a recent event.[1]
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Footnotes:
[1] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2024, February 2). Flu & Other Respiratory Viruses: Weekly U.S. Flu View. [online] Available at:
[2] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2024, February 2). COVID-19 Data Tracker Weekly Review. [online] Available at:
[3] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2024, February 2). COVID-19-Related Hospital Admissions and Occupancy Rates Data. [online] Available at:
[4] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2024, February 2). Respiratory Virus Surveillance – United States. [online] Available at:
