Sick Season is Here: What You Need to Know About Flu, RSV, and COVID-19

As the holidays come to an end, so do the festivities for many families in Chicago. Instead of celebrating, they're dealing with a wave of illnesses. Flu and RSV, a respiratory virus, are on the rise, making their way through the city like a storm. Doctors say it's not surprising, as this time of year is always tough on our immune systems. Take Leslee Cohen-Lavin's family in Highland Park. They were feeling great until the holidays hit. Then, one by one, they all got sick. Their 5-year-old daughter had a fever and lost her appetite, while Leslee battled a fever for days. Even Dad got a head cold. They had to cancel most of their winter break plans. But they're not alone. Across Chicago, cases of flu and RSV are skyrocketing. According to a recent health department report, flu activity is rapidly increasing, and RSV activity is very high. COVID-19 is also on the rise, though it's still low compared to flu and RSV. Norovirus, which causes nasty vomiting and diarrhea, is also spiking nationally.

Doctors are seeing it all. Dr. Laura Zimmermann, a primary care doctor at Rush University System for Health, just got over a nasty viral illness herself. She says it's a typical cold and flu season, so no need to panic. But health care facilities are taking precautions, like recommending masks to keep patients safe. RSV is a big concern because it can be severe for babies and older adults. Lurie Children's Hospital had 23 kids hospitalized with RSV, half in intensive care. Flu activity in Chicago is also high, but not as bad as it was a year ago. COVID-19 is increasing but remains low. So, what can we do? Doctors recommend vaccinations for the flu and COVID-19. Even if you haven't gotten them yet, it's not too late. They also suggest washing hands, staying home when sick, and wearing masks if you can't isolate. Let's hope this sick season passes quickly and we can all get back to enjoying the winter months.

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