Flu-Like Illness Surges in US; New Jersey Mom Recalls Miserable Christmas Breakdown
Rising Flu Cases and Other Illnesses in the U.S.
Flu-like illnesses have reached the highest level in the United States in 25 years, according to updated data released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The surge in infections includes the flu, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), COVID-19, colds, and coughs. Health professionals attribute this increase to holiday festivities and travel, which have created ideal conditions for the spread of these illnesses.
Health officials warn that the current season is expected to worsen. Ada Hung, a mother of four from Cherry Hill, New Jersey, shared her experience with the flu, describing it as “feeling like I got hit by a bus.” She noted that her illness ruined both Christmas and her birthday the following day.
Hung described her symptoms, including a runny nose, severe headaches, and an inability to open her eyes. A test confirmed she had influenza A, a highly contagious strain that spreads rapidly.
Dr. Martin Topiel, from Virtua Health, stated that hospitals are seeing a significant increase in patients with influenza. He explained that the post-holiday period often leads to a surge in respiratory infections. According to Topiel, those most at risk include individuals without caretakers at home.
The CDC’s updated map shows that the flu is widespread across the country, with high numbers reported in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware. New Jersey alone recorded over 12,000 cases through December, double the number from the previous year.
Hung emphasized the importance of hygiene and precautions. “We really need to wash our hands, cover our coughs, and wear masks in crowded areas,” she said. However, she admitted that she couldn’t get a flu shot this year due to autoimmune medications she takes.
Topiel acknowledged that fewer people being vaccinated is contributing to the spike in flu cases. He also mentioned that this year’s vaccine does not protect against a new strain, but he stressed that it is still effective.
Hung shared that her husband was the one who initially got sick. “He gave me the flu as a birthday and Christmas gift, which I definitely did not appreciate,” she said. Although she took Tamiflu, she is still struggling with a persistent cough.
Doctors highlight that the flu is typically most contagious just before symptoms appear and can be spread for up to a week. This makes it crucial for individuals to take preventive measures to avoid spreading the virus to others.
Key Preventive Measures
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially after being in public places.
- Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow to prevent the spread of germs.
- Wear masks in crowded areas, particularly during peak flu season.
- Stay home if experiencing symptoms to avoid infecting others.
- Get vaccinated annually, even if the vaccine may not cover all strains.
Impact on Families and Communities
The recent surge in flu and other respiratory illnesses has had a significant impact on families and communities. Many parents, like Hung, find themselves juggling their own health issues while caring for their children. The strain on healthcare systems is also evident, with hospitals reporting higher admission rates.
As the flu season continues, experts urge the public to remain vigilant and follow recommended guidelines to reduce the spread of illness. With the holidays behind us, the focus now shifts to managing the ongoing health crisis and preparing for what could be a prolonged season of respiratory diseases.
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