Influenza and COVID-19 infection rates in Virginia are rising later than usual this flu season, according to Tracey Odachowski, System Director for Infection Prevention and Control at Sentara Health. While the state’s flu season remains on track with typical trends, both flu and COVID-19 cases have spiked about two weeks later than expected. Odachowski and other local health experts anticipate that infection rates may continue to rise before the flu season comes to a close.
The latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals worsening COVID-19 activity across the country, while RSV levels remain high and flu cases remain elevated. Odachowski noted that flu infections have increased dramatically since late December, with cases quadrupling over the past few weeks. “The biggest surge came in the last two weeks, right after Christmas,” she said.
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Holiday travel and gatherings have been major contributors to the spread of these infections, particularly among the most vulnerable populations: young children and adults over the age of 65. “While there was a slight increase in cases among those in their twenties and thirties, the youngest and oldest age groups are currently the most affected,” Odachowski explained.
According to the Virginia Department of Health (VDH), COVID-19 rates are lower than at this time last year, though the number of cases is on the rise. COVID-19 is currently responsible for 1.6% of the state’s emergency room visits. Heather Harmon-Sloan from VDH emphasized the potential for another flu peak later in the season, even if cases appear to stabilize or decline temporarily, as seen in the week ending January 4th.
To help reduce the spread of these infections, health experts recommend simple precautions such as frequent handwashing and staying home if you’re feeling sick.
