Winter has descended once again, ushering in its familiar cadre of unwelcome symptoms – the relentless coughs, persistent nasal congestion, unshakable fatigue, and, of course, the ominous fever. But this year, there’s a new, highly contagious player on the field: the JN.1 variant of COVID-19, which is rapidly gaining prominence and leading the charge in hospital admissions among respiratory viruses, as reported by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Last week, 25 U.S. states reported high or very high levels of respiratory illnesses characterized by fever, cough, and other distressing symptoms. Though this is a decrease from the 37 states the previous week, it remains a significant public health concern. Since the beginning of October, over 16 million people have fallen ill, leading to 180,000 hospitalizations and tragically, 11,000 deaths due to influenza. Perhaps even more distressing, 47 children have lost their lives to flu-related complications.
As January traditionally marks the peak of these respiratory illnesses, it’s imperative to take action to protect yourself and your loved ones from the twin threats of influenza, COVID-19, and RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus).
Maintaining proper hand hygiene remains the cornerstone of reducing viral spread. Experts recommend washing your hands for at least 20 seconds, or if you prefer, silently counting to 20 while scrubbing with soap and water. In situations where soap and water are inaccessible, a hand sanitizer containing a minimum of 60% alcohol is a viable alternative. Furthermore, wearing masks in crowded areas can provide an added layer of protection, as can ensuring adequate ventilation both at work and at home.
In the United States, only 17% of eligible individuals have received the updated COVID-19 vaccine, which offers robust protection against the current dominant JN.1 variant. However, it’s crucial to remember that it’s not too late to get vaccinated against COVID-19. In addition to this, make sure you receive your annual flu shot, a simple yet effective measure in reducing the risk of influenza. If you are 60 years or older, consider the RSV vaccine, which is also recommended for pregnant individuals to protect infants from this virus.
Families with young children face unique challenges during the winter season. Children tend to pick up germs easily, especially when confined indoors with others. Jennifer Sonney of the University of Washington School of Nursing in Seattle advises parents and caregivers to prioritize self-care to support their immune function. Factors like adequate sleep, hydration, and stress management can make a significant difference in maintaining good health.
Sonney, who is the immediate past president of the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners, emphasizes that despite one’s best efforts, it’s not uncommon for children to fall ill during this time. However, being prepared can ease the situation. Consider keeping a home kit for children stocked with saline drops, a bulb syringe for clearing mucus from tiny nostrils, fever-reducing medication, tissues, and hydration options like water bottles or sippy cups.
Should you fall ill, prompt testing is essential to determine whether you have COVID-19 or influenza. Identifying the specific virus is crucial because it influences treatment options. Medications like Paxlovid for COVID-19 and Tamiflu for the flu can help prevent severe illness if administered early.
For those without test kits at home, test-to-treat sites are available at pharmacy clinics or health centers in many areas. Uninsured adults or individuals who rely on government health insurance can access a free home-based test-to-treat program.