RSV and flu cases on the rise
NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — Respiratory illness cases are on the rise, particularly in young people, which is why Novant Health is implementing temporary visitor restrictions at its hospitals.
Children under age 13 are being asked not to visit Novant Health hospitals.
WWAY spoke with Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center’s Medical Director Benjamin Wiles.
He said the hospital is seeing more RSV and influenza cases right now and they’re hoping the restrictions will reduce the risk of the viruses spreading.
Wiles said RSV and the flu are hitting children, seniors, and those with low immunity especially hard right now.
“There’s more hospitalizations and there’s more PICU and pediatric floors that are closer to maximum capacity,” Wiles said.
He said some of the basic rules apply when it comes to slowing the spread of viruses. Keep hard surfaces wiped down and remember to practice good hand washing habits.
Wiles said some of the symptoms to watch for are wheezing, difficulty breathing, runny nose, cough or congestion.
“But you really want to watch for, if they start having respiratory symptoms, if you think they’re having trouble breathing. It’s always best to air on the side of caution and get checked out,” Wiles said.
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services reported four more deaths related to the flu on Wednesday.
That brings the total number to 22 deaths since the beginning of the season. Flu hospitalizations increased to 393, up from 300 the previous week.
New Hanover County Health Director Jon Campbell shared tips on how to keep these sicknesses away from your home for the holidays.
“Of course, if you’re not feeling well, I would encourage individuals to limit your contact with others,” Campbell said. “Other things such as covering your cough and sneezing, that could be impactful in keeping the community safe.”
Campbell also recommends staying up to date on vaccines that cover these types of illnesses.
All four flu deaths this week were adults.
NCDHHS said 18 of the 22 total deaths this season were seniors.
