Respiratory Illnesses, Norovirus Spreading Across U.S.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports respiratory illnesses are on the rise, the agency also reporting an unusually high number of norovirus outbreaks getting people sick across the country.

There is an increase in emergency room visits and hospitalizations increasing related to COVID-19, influenza and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). There were more than 90 norovirus outbreaks in the first week of December, the highest number recorded during that week in recent years.

NOROVIRUS This very contagious virus ─ more commonly known as stomach flu ─ affects more than 20 million people each year. Norovirus can cause symptoms within 12 hours to 47 hours after being exposed. The CDC data doesn’t show all cases as state, local and territorial health departments are not required to report individual cases of norovirus. Also, some people may not seek health care for their illness, and most hospitals and doctor’s offices do not generally test for norovirus.

COVID-19 Activity is growing in most areas of the country, with increasing emergency department visits and positive laboratory tests. The CDC predicts COVID-19 illness will continue to increase in the coming weeks as it usually does in the winter.

INFLUENZA Seasonal flu activity is rising with increases reported in doctor and emergency room visits, positive tests and hospital admissions. The CDC estimates that there have been at least 3.1 million illnesses, 37,000 hospitalizations, and 1,500 deaths from flu so far this season.

RSV Activity is high and continues to increase in most areas of the country, particularly in young children. Emergency department visits and hospitalizations are increasing in children and hospitalizations are increasing among older adults.

These illnesses can cause mild to severe symptoms, and at times can lead to death. Information on who is at risk is available here.

The CDC reports there is still time to benefit from getting your recommended immunizations to reduce your risk of illness this season, especially severe illness and hospitalization. The Red Cross encourages individuals to protect their own health by receiving a vaccination for flu, COVID 19 or RSV.

It’s important to know that getting any of these vaccines does not cause a wait period for donating blood, and does not affect donation eligibility, as long as you are healthy, feeling well and symptom free at the time of donation.

STOP THE SPREAD

There is no vaccine for the norovirus, which is very contagious, but you can take steps to stop it from spreading.

• Wash hands well with soap and water; hand sanitizer alone does not work well against norovirus.

• Do not prepare, handle food, or care for others when you are sick.

Find out more here.

Respiratory illnesses:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing and throw the tissue away after use. If a tissue isn’t available, cough or sneeze into your elbow, not your hands.

• Wash hands often, especially after coughing or sneezing. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand-sanitizer.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

• Stay home if you’re sick.

More information about how to help keep you and your loved ones protected is available on this website and in the free Red Cross First Aid app. Find all of the Red Cross apps in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to redcross.org/apps.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.