(NewsNation) — If you’re blowing your nose or coughing a little more than usual, you’re not the only one.
It’s prime sick season, and the “quad-demic” persists. What is it, and how can you protect your health?
NewsNation spoke with Dr. Jason Yaun, a pediatrician and professor at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center.
What is a “quad-demic”?
A “pandemic” is a widespread outbreak of an infectious disease, as we saw with COVID-19. But the term “quad-demic” began appearing in recent months, and it describes the presence of multiple viruses going around.
“The term ‘quad-demic’ is being used to describe the simultaneous outbreaks of four viruses, consisting of three respiratory illnesses and one gastrointestinal disease: influenza (flu), COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and the stomach bug, norovirus.”
Who is most at risk for getting sick this winter?
RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, is a respiratory illness that affects the nose, throat and lungs. The symptoms are similar to the common cold and other respiratory infections like the flu and COVID-19.
RSV can cause other illnesses like bronchiolitis, which is inflammation of the lungs’ small airways, and pneumonia.
Infants and older adults are most susceptible.
Last year, the Centers for Disease Control recorded more than one million hospitalizations and more than 100,000 deaths caused by respiratory viruses, such as RSV.
“While these viruses can affect anyone, certain groups are at a heightened risk for severe disease and complications,” Yaun said.
“These include older adults, who often have weakened immune systems, young children whose immune systems are still developing, individuals with underlying medical conditions, and pregnant and recently pregnant people.”
RSV is the leading cause of infant hospitalization in the U.S., according to the CDC.
“The CDC predicts that emergency department visits will remain high and continue to increase across most states, emphasizing the need for vigilance and preventive measures,” Yaun said.
How can people avoid getting sick?
Doctors suggest staying up to date on vaccinations.
“We are seeing that fewer people are getting vaccinated for respiratory viruses, particularly influenza. The COVID-19 pandemic may have contributed to some ‘vaccine fatigue,’ but people may also not feel the urgency to get vaccinated.” Dr. Yaun said. “Vaccines remain a safe and effective way to prevent illness and reduce the severity of these infections.”
Everyday healthy hygiene habits go a long way, too. Wash your hands with soap and water and avoid being around other people who are sick.
Of the viruses within the “quad-demic,” norovirus is the only one that cannot be vaccinated against. It’s more commonly known as the “stomach bug,” causing inflammation of the stomach and intestines.
“The rise in positive norovirus cases during this time is atypical compared to recent seasons. This winter’s wave of norovirus infections has reached levels more than double last season’s peak,” Dr. Yaun said.
“Unfortunately, there is currently no vaccine for norovirus, so proper handwashing and food preparation techniques are imperative for prevention.”
