As we near the end of 2022 and approach the new year, it’s important to take precautions against the emerging “tridemic.” The tridemic refers to three viruses expected to hit hard this holiday season: COVID-19, influenza (flu), and respiratory syncytial virus infection (RSV). In the past several weeks, emergency rooms around the US have seen an increase in patients; a major culprit is RSV.
Due to masking protocols associated with the coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), illnesses like the flu, RSV, and other respiratory illnesses were held in check for two years. As these precautions have been relaxed, there is a sharp rise in RSV (respiratory virus) in children, Flu cases are higher than usual, and hospitalization of COVID cases are rising. These infections might have been spread out over time, but they’re happening all at once now.
Respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. Most people recover in a week or two, but RSV can be serious, especially for infants and older adults.
Co-infection with any combination of the viruses increases the risk of serious complications and hospitalizations. The risk is even greater if you have certain medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, weakened immune system, heart or lung disease).
How to Protect Yourself & Your Community
The best protection against these illnesses is vaccination against the flu and COVID-19 viruses. It’s not too late to get your COVID booster, and you can have both at the same time.
Do the best that you can to protect yourself and your community. Take everyday preventive actions recommended to reduce the spread of all three viruses.
- People may choose to wear a mask at any time.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick. If you are sick, limit contact with others as much as possible.
- Cover coughs and sneezes. Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Germs spread this way.
Convenient Appointments Are Available Now
CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine for everyone six months and older as the first and most crucial step in protecting against flu viruses.
CDC also recommends everyone stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Updated (bivalent) boosters became available on September 2, 2022.
The bivalent COVID-19 boosters and flu shots are now available at EHE Health clinics. Convenient appointments are available now. Call 888.672.8172 to schedule.
If you are showing symptoms, we can connect you to your healthcare provider or refer you to a primary care physician. Contact our Health Navigation Center at 844.258.1820