RSV, strep throat, sinus infections, fall allergies

Here’s our weekly roundup of the illnesses most spreading in metro Detroit’s communities, according to local doctors and hospitals.

“The upper respiratory tract is a theme this week (between the common cold, allergic rhinitis, sinusitis and COVID-19),” said Candace Wooten, MinuteClinic family nurse practitioner.

Wayne County – RSV, Covid, stomach virus, colds, sinus infections, strep throat.

Dr. Kevin Dazy – Pediatric Resident, Children’s Hospital of Michigan

“We’re seeing an increase in RSV, and COVID cases are still increasing. Additionally, we’re seeing an increase in ‘gastroenteritis’ (gastroenteritis), with vomiting and diarrhea. We’re also just starting to see some croup cases. When traveling for the holidays, keep an eye out for immunocompromised or older family members. “If your kids are sick, it’s best to see them again. “

Dr. Christopher Loewe – Ascension St. John’s Hospital

“I’m seeing patients with sinus infections. Colds and seasonal allergies can cause these infections. Patients should watch for headaches or facial pain, runny nose, and nasal congestion. It’s important to see a doctor because it often requires antibiotic treatment.”

Dr. Asha Shajahan – Primary Care Physician, Beaumont Hospital, Grosse Pointe Corewell Health

“This week, and before that, we see people of all ages struggling with the common cold, COVID-19, pre-holiday blues, and anxiety, grief and depression due to the loss of a loved one.”

Oakland County – Strep throat, RSV, influenza, upper respiratory tract infections, colds, fall allergies.

Dr. Steven McGraw – Director, Emergency Department, Ascension Providence Hospital, Southfield Campus

“I’m seeing patients with strep throat and the flu. Flu is very contagious. Now is the time to wash your hands more frequently and be vigilant. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is circulating this season. It usually causes mild symptoms similar to a cold.”

Dr. Rena Daiza – Primary care physician at Henry Ford Medical Center, Bloomfield Twp.

“There has been an increase in respiratory illnesses this week, particularly among patients with respiratory syncytial virus. As a reminder, this virus is especially harmful to children and older adults. The RSV vaccine is now available, so patients can talk to their provider about their candidacy !”

Dr. Julie MacPherson – Pediatrician, Beaumont Hospital, Corewell Health, Troy

“We still have a lot of strep infections and RSV cases are increasing. Also, there’s still a lot of upper respiratory tract viruses.”

Washington County – Bronchiolitis, RSV, colds, adenovirus, influenza.

Dr. Marisa Louie – Medical Director, Pediatric Emergency Services, Michigan Medicine

“We found increased infections with several different viruses in patients with bronchiolitis, including respiratory syncytial virus and rhinoenterovirus. We also found a high number of adenovirus infections, which tend to cause long-term symptoms such as fever, cough and conjunctivitis .”

Washtenaw County Health Department

“Influenza activity in Washtenaw County is currently at a low level. Sporadic cases of influenza A and B are being reported. Flu-related hospitalizations of Washtenaw residents are currently at a low level. Sporadic hospitalizations have been reported .”

Monroe County – Respiratory tract infections, stomach virus, pneumonia.

Dr. Spencer Johnson, DO, FACEP — ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital – Urgent Care Center

“Respiratory infections and viral gastrointestinal infections are what we see most of the time and are very typical for this time of year. We also have a significant increase in cases of infectious pneumonia. Aggressive hand hygiene is very important at this time of year to reduce The spread of infectious organisms is critical. People who are sick should seek medical attention and avoid social interactions until they are symptom-free and fever-free for 24 hours. These actions alone will go a long way toward keeping our community healthy.”

Macomb County – RSV, flu, fall allergies, asthma attacks, pneumonia, croup.

Dr. Brianne Wagoner – McLaren Macomb Emergency Physician

“The first cases of seasonal respiratory syncytial virus emerged in pediatric patients, causing symptoms of persistent cough and runny nose. The number of patients presenting to emergency rooms with positive influenza tests continues to decrease but is stable, with patients primarily presenting with body aches , fever and cough. Weather conditions and certain allergens are causing symptoms in asthma patients to worsen. The number of patients testing positive for COVID-19 has remained low, and the vast majority of patients have mild symptoms and do not require hospitalization.”

Livingston County – No reports this week.