Title: Tennessee Sees Surge in Respiratory Illnesses During Holiday Season
In recent weeks, Tennessee has become a hotspot for respiratory illnesses, as hospitals and clinics are inundated with patients suffering from COVID-19 and influenza. The state, along with the rest of the South, has reported “high” or “very high” levels of flu activity, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
According to data from the final days of December, Tennessee has observed a concerning 12% increase in outpatient visits related to the flu. Tragically, one child in the state has already lost their life due to the flu, as reported by the state Department of Health.
COVID-19 cases have been on the rise in Tennessee since October, with over 460 hospitalized patients diagnosed with the virus as of December 24. The state is now grappling with the simultaneous surge of both the flu and COVID-19, leading to increased strain on healthcare resources.
Adding to the alarming situation, Tennessee is also witnessing a significant number of confirmed cases of Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). This respiratory virus poses a substantial risk to young children and older adults with chronic diseases.
Compounding the issue, this year’s flu vaccine uptake has been worryingly low. As of mid-December, the number of flu vaccine doses administered across the country is at its lowest level in five years. Healthcare professionals emphasize the importance of immunization, stressing that vaccines for pregnant women, flu shots, and the latest COVID-19 booster are widely available.
While physicians assert that this year’s strains of respiratory illnesses are not inherently more dangerous than in previous years, the unvaccinated and un-boosted individuals tend to experience more severe cases of both COVID-19 and influenza.
Moreover, the risk of contagious illnesses spreading quickly after the holiday season is a cause for concern. With people congregating during festivities, it becomes easier for viruses to spread rapidly and exponentially.
Resolute efforts are crucial to address this surge in respiratory illnesses. Healthcare providers in Tennessee are diligently treating patients and urging vaccination and booster shots. The public is advised to adhere to safety protocols, including wearing masks, practicing good hand hygiene, and maintaining social distancing.
As Tennessee battles a sharp rise in respiratory illnesses, it is essential for individuals to heed the warnings, protect themselves, and do their part to mitigate the spread of these infectious diseases.
“Prone to fits of apathy. Devoted music geek. Troublemaker. Typical analyst. Alcohol practitioner. Food junkie. Passionate tv fan. Web expert.”