Winter flu cases increase in Florida

The beginning of winter is USA It is characterized by a significant Increased cases of influenza and other respiratory viruses.according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)seven states, including Florida, Its neighbor to the southeast, Puerto Rico, is experiencing High infection rate. As local media noted, last week was particularly critical.

Children, in particular, seem to be most affected during this season. Dadilla Garcesepidemiologist and professor Miami Dade Collegein conversation T51 Miamistressed the importance of vaccination, especially during festive periods, e.g. Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas, a period during which respiratory virus cases have historically increased. Garces stressed that the flu vaccine is critical to reducing the risk of serious complications in minors.

Apart from influenza, Another virus that is circulating is norovirus, Commonly known as “Acute gastroenteritis”. It is a highly contagious virus and one of the leading causes of gastroenteritis. According to Garcés, it is mainly through Symptoms of ingestion of contaminated food include diarrhea and vomiting. The expert stressed the importance of hand washing as a preventive measure and warned that for vulnerable groups such as children and pregnant women, norovirus can be extremely dangerous.

Typical symptoms include Diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and stomach pain. They may also experience fever, headache, and body aches. Symptoms usually appear 12 to 48 hours after exposure to the virus and generally last 1 to 3 days.

There is no specific treatment norovirus. Treatment of the disease focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing dehydration, especially in young children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems. In severe cases, oral or intravenous fluid rehydration is crucial.

Although hospitalizations for COVID-19 have declined, florida hospitals They reported higher numbers of doctor visits for other types of respiratory illnesses.Thomas Unnasch, professor emeritus, University of South Florida School of Public Health, for news miami, This phenomenon is typical of the season and is consistent with Increase social interaction and contact between people.

so far, CDC They estimate there are at least 780,000 cases of influenza. In addition, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) has also caused concern. Unnasch noted that the current situation may focus on RSV and influenza, thereby Coronavirus disease to the background.

Despite current uncertainty about the effectiveness of the flu vaccine, doctors still recommend vaccination as one of the most effective measures to prevent hospitalization.Other precautions include Use a mask, hand sanitizer and maintain good personal hygiene

.

according to CDC, Approximately 35% of adults and 33% of children in the United States have been vaccinated against the influenza virus.

The current situation reflects the continued importance of preventive measures and vaccinations in dealing with winter and its associated health challenges. As cases increase and various viruses spread, Health authorities and medical experts urge people to remain vigilant and adopt healthy practices to protect yourself and your community.