VOORHEES TWP., New Jersey (WPVI) - Respiratory illnesses are on the rise in the Philadelphia area following holiday gatherings. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as of December 29, flu activity is minimal in Delaware, high in Pennsylvania, and extremely high in New Jersey. The latest data from the New Jersey Department of Health indicates widespread impact across the state, with over 19,000 cases reported since early October, including more than 6,000 in just the past week.
Dr. Charles Nolte, Virtua Health's clinical director, shed light on why New Jersey appears to be faring the worst in the region. "It's hard to predict why that happened, but I can tell you we're feeling it in the department. I've been practicing emergency medicine for years, and this feels like the highest volume. I think it's the convergence of having those three viruses simultaneously," Dr. Nolte said.
Influenza, Coronavirus, and RSV are currently circulating. While an increase in illness is expected this season, Nolte highlighted that the volume of patients dealing with these three infections at once is unique. Medical experts continue to advocate for staying at home at the slightest hint of feeling unwell, wearing masks, maintaining hygiene practices, and getting vaccinated as some of the best defenses against sickness.
"It's not too late to be vaccinated, so if you haven't received the Coronavirus or flu vaccine and you're not currently experiencing symptoms, it's in your best interest to seek vaccination," Nolte advised. Additionally, he highlighted the importance of extra caution for individuals with underlying health conditions or comorbidities, as they are more susceptible to illness than the average person.
As a precaution, Virtua Health has mandated masks for doctors and staff, while it is highly recommended but optional for patients. Nolte anticipates another surge in infections and an even higher influx of patients in the upcoming weeks. To alleviate emergency department activity in hospitals, if one suspects having the flu, Coronavirus, or RSV, Nolte recommends visiting an urgent care facility or consulting with a family doctor before heading to the emergency room.
"If you feel like you have flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, headache, cough, and congestion, there are alternative resources besides emergency departments where you can seek care. Exercising a bit of self-awareness can help ease the burden on emergency departments," Nolte stressed.