Staying Healthy For The Holidays: Tips From Health Experts On Illnesses Going Around In The TriState

CINCINNATI - The holiday season is in full swing and it's the time of year when various seasonal ailments tend to increase.

This time last year, health officials were warning of rising rates of RSV and influenza. Even if they do not give the alarm for 2023, they still invite the population to take measures to avoid getting sick.

"We're seeing a lot of respiratory viruses right now," the doctor said. Robert Tracy of St. Elizabeth Health of Northern Kentucky made the announcement.

He said you see cases of RSV in particular.

CDC data shows Kentucky is averaging about 57 positive RSV tests per week, which is about the same as the average number of positive tests per week in November.

In Ohio, CDC data show the state is averaging about 698 positive RSV tests per week, up from about 650 per week in November.

"Perhaps the most important thing is that we now have a monoclonal antibody called Beyfortus," Tracy said.

This antibody is an RSV vaccine approved by the FDA this summer.

As WCPO 9 previously reported, the program has been difficult to find, so for parents who haven't been able to vaccinate their children, Tracy has some additional advice.

"If you are sick, try to stay away. If you are sick or have a runny nose, wear a mask to avoid infection," he said.

As always, Tracy said hand washing is key to preventing any illness.

The Ohio Department of Health currently rates influenza activity in Ohio as moderate.

According to the CDC, since October there have been more than 8,000 cases of flu-like illness in Ohio, more than 7,000 in Kentucky and more than 11,000 in Indiana.

Tracy encourages everyone to get their flu shot and get the latest COVID-19 vaccine.

"It's never too late to get it now." "Especially around the holidays, it takes about two weeks for vaccines to really kick in and be effective," he said.

While some illnesses do occur this time of year, the Warren County Health District reported an increase in whooping cough and childhood pneumonia last month.

On Wednesday, the province told WCPO that the number of cases in both cases continued to rise.

"Pneumonia usually presents with fever, cough or malaise. Therefore, it is important that parents and caregivers allow their children to consult their doctors and primary care providers if they have a fever, cough, or simply do not feel well," said Dr. Clint Koenig.

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