No one wants to be sick over the holidays.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is monitoring respiratory illnesses across the country as increased levels of respiratory illness activity have been reported in some countries. The CDC issued a health alert network advisory to healthcare providers to raise awareness about respiratory illnesses.
New Jersey is reporting a high level of respiratory illnesses, and many people are at risk of becoming sick in the coming months, according to the CDC.
Vaccination rates for COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus are low while elevated levels of respiratory illness are rising as we enter the peak season for respiratory issues, according to the CDC.
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Respiratory illnesses that are circulating globally:
- Influenza
- COVID-19
- Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection
- Mycoplasma pneumoniae
Age groups most impacted by hospital visits:
- Visits due to COVID is highest among adults ages 65 and up, and children under 2 years old.
- Visits due to RSV are highest among children under 4 years old.
- Visits due to Influenza are the highest among school aged-children 5-17 years old.
Age groups most impacted by hospitalizations:
- RSV-associated hospitalization rates are elevated among children under 4 years old and increasing among adults 65 and older.
- Rates of influenza-associated hospitalizations continue to increase, and adults 65 and older have the highest rate.
- Rates of COVID-19-associated hospitalizations are elevated for infants and young children and highest among older adults.
More:COVID-19 cases expected to rise in the coming days, NJ health officials say
Before hitting the road this season, the CDC suggest these tips to help protect yourself and others when traveling this holiday season.
- Get vaccinated.
- Wear a mask.
- Practice physical distancing.
- Wash hands regularly.
- If ill, get tested. Do not travel.
