Opinion: Here's what you need to know about the flu, COVID-19 and RSV 'tripledemic' [Opinion]
Aside from symptomatic and supportive care — such as rest, hydration and medications for fever and aches — antivirals like Tamiflu, Relenza, Rapivab and Xofluza can, if taken within 48 hours of symptom onset, reduce severity and shorten a bout of the flu.
New COVID-19 treatments are emerging and being refined. Antivirals like Paxlovid and Veklury have been shown to reduce the chances of hospitalization or death if taken shortly after symptoms appear. Monoclonal antibodies offer promise too. There are no specific remedies for RSV. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms, much like those of the flu, and monitoring for more severe complications.
The COVID pandemic has taught us many painful lessons, but it is knowledge we can use now. No single test exists to differentiate between the flu, COVID-19 and RSV, which means vigilance and quick action are critical. If you feel sick, see your doctor. If you don’t feel sick, see a doctor anyway to get up to date on vaccinations. Remember that social distancing, masking and good personal hygiene are simple but effective ways to avoid infection.
Canada Latest News, Canada Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
The flu, COVID-19 and RSV: Why health experts are concerned about this ‘tripledemic’Hospitals are filling up with people battling both flu and COVID as well as with pediatric patients suffering from RSV. This is what health experts have deemed as the ‘tripledemic’ and there’s concern that these infections will continue to spread.
Read more »
Flu, COVID-19 Spreading as RSV Tails Off, CDC SaysFlu cases are higher than in a decade, and COVID-19 cases are up since Thanksgiving even as the spread of respiratory syncytial virus seems to be calming down, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says.
Read more »
Doctor: It's possible to get flu, RSV, and COVID at same timeExperts say the winter flu season started early this year, even compared to pre-pandemic years. This is occurring alongside a spike in RSV — especially among children — and the ongoing COVID cases.
Read more »
Health officials warn of ‘tripledemic’ with spread of flu, COVID-19 and RSVPatients at Overlake Medical Center in Bellevue have had all three viruses at the same time.
Read more »
Between COVID, flu and RSV, should people mask up every fall and winter?Stepping up your hand hygiene and avoiding exposure to people who are sick may be just as, if not more, effective than wearing a mask.
Read more »