RSV, flu cases on the rise; take precautions this holiday season
Nov 25, 2024
HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Officials warn everyone to take precautions this holiday season as RSV and flu cases continue to rise.
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"We are seeing a little bit of an uptick, which is not atypical for this time of the year," Healthcare Association of Hawaii President and CEO Hilton Raethel said. "But at this point in time, it's not overwhelming any parts of the healthcare delivery system, which is good."
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According to the CDC, Hawaii is one of five states leading the country with more than 11% of RSV tests coming back positive.
Despite the rise in RSV, Raethel said there's no need for alarm and added that while COVID and flu cases are popping up, they aren't that bad either.
"Flu tends to impact us a little later in the year, or early into the new year, so that at this point in time for any of the respiratory diseases we're in good shape," Raethel explained.
He's advising everyone to keep that in mind as they gather for the holidays.
"It's a season of celebration. So we can take some precautions. If you are sick or if you do have symptoms, just excuse yourself. You know, don't go or if, or at least, at the very least, wear a mask. But please be mindful of your families, of your co-workers, people around you."
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He said if you are eligible for a vaccine, he recommends getting one to help fight respiratory illnesses as we get deeper into flu season.