Area families still getting hit hard by flu, RSV

Many people are finding themselves suffering from Influenza A, Influenza B, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), or a stomach virus. There have even been reports of some other strains of influenzas and a bacterial respiratory infection.

RSV has hit local children hard this winter as the number of cases reached an all-time high.

Area parent Ariahana Barger said recently that her family had just got over a stomach bug when her son ended up with an upper respiratory tract infection.

Another area parent, Heather Powell, said her daughter has been suffering from influenza A. Area parents can be seen all over social media sites talking about sick children.

“There is increasingly clear evidence that we are going to see a rather severe flu season,” said Dr. Clay Marsh, West Virginia’s COVID-19 czar.

“We’re starting to see some of that now as the southeast part of the country has been enveloped in influenza A, which is the type of flu that’s going around. That’s combining with the current challenge we have with the respiratory syncytial virus, RSV,” he said.

Medical professionals are warning of what they’re calling a “tri-demic,” as cases of the flu, COVID, and RSV are all spiking.

Many parents are asking what they can do to help protect their little ones, and adults are also seeking advice on how to avoid the constant crud that seems to plague the area.

According to WVU Medicine, flu, COVID-19 and RSV can be transmitted through droplets in the air. Flu and RSV are mainly spread when a person coughs or sneezes, but could also be spread by touching a surface that has the virus on it and then touching your face before washing your hands.

Getting vaccinated is the first step; Covid and flu vaccines are available and are the best way to prevent flu and COVID-19 and their potentially serious complications, according to WVU Medicine.

Other steps you can take to avoid getting sick include washing your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds or using alcohol-based hand rub. Make sure to clean between your fingers and around your wrists. Sing the chorus of “Country Roads” as you wash your hands.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches the eyes, nose or mouth.

Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue, or use the bend of your elbow, not your hands. Use the nearest waste receptacle to dispose of the tissue after use.

Avoid contact with individuals who are sick, when possible.

Additionally, sick individuals are urged to stay home.

A healthy diet and regular sleep and exercise can help maintain a strong immune system to help prevent any infection.