The Strong Return of Influenza and Colds – Why Now?
The COVID-19 restrictions mean we are more vulnerable to these viruses. What is behind the current rise in the Northern Hemisphere and what will be the new normal?
The Impact of COVID-19 Restrictions on Flu and Colds
The restrictions imposed to contain the spread of COVID-19 have led to a decrease in the transmission of other respiratory illnesses. Influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) – a seasonal virus that usually causes mild cold-like symptoms but can be serious for young children and the elderly – nearly disappeared in 2020 and early 2021. Now, in the Northern Hemisphere, RSV is surging, and the hospitalization rate for influenza in the United States is higher at this time of year than it has been since 2010. Why are these surges occurring now? And what does the future hold for the coming winter months?
The Impact of COVID-19 on Influenza and Cold Infections
The restrictions imposed to contain the spread of COVID-19 have led to a decrease in the transmission of other respiratory illnesses. Influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) – a seasonal virus that usually causes mild cold-like symptoms but can be serious for young children and the elderly – nearly disappeared in 2020 and early 2021. Now, in the Northern Hemisphere, RSV is surging, and the hospitalization rate for influenza in the United States is higher at this time of year than it has been since 2010. Why are these surges occurring now? And what does the future hold for the coming winter months?
The Impact of COVID-19 on Influenza and Cold Infections
The restrictions imposed to contain the spread of COVID-19 have led to a decrease in the transmission of other respiratory illnesses. Influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) – a seasonal virus that usually causes mild cold-like symptoms but can be serious for young children and the elderly – nearly disappeared in 2020 and early 2021. Now, in the Northern Hemisphere, RSV is surging, and the hospitalization rate for influenza in the United States is higher at this time of year than it has been since 2010. Why are these surges occurring now? And what does the future hold for the coming winter months?
The Impact of COVID-19 on Influenza and Cold Infections
The restrictions imposed to contain the spread of COVID-19 have led to a decrease in the transmission of other respiratory illnesses. Influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) – a seasonal virus that usually causes mild cold-like symptoms but can be serious for young children and the elderly – nearly disappeared in 2020 and early 2021. Now, in the Northern Hemisphere, RSV is surging, and the hospitalization rate for influenza in the United States is higher at this time of year than it has been since 2010. Why are these surges occurring now? And what does the future hold for the coming winter months?
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