The United States is bracing for another respiratory virus season, but experts predict that it won’t be as severe as the last one. Last year’s flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) seasons were particularly harsh, with packed hospitals, drug shortages, and widespread illness. However, this year, experts believe that illnesses like the flu and RSV will settle back into their seasonal patterns.
One reason for this expectation is the availability of vaccines and antibodies to protect against these viruses. For the first time in history, there are vaccinations against Covid-19, the flu, and RSV. Dr. Buddy Creech, a pediatric infectious disease specialist, states that having vaccines against all three of these viruses is a major advantage in combating respiratory illnesses.
However, experts acknowledge that there will be challenges in ensuring that everyone who needs these vaccines has access to them. The government is no longer purchasing Covid-19 vaccines for everyone, which means that the cost may be passed on to insurers and patients. Additionally, the delivery system for adult vaccinations is lacking, especially in rural and low-income areas. This, coupled with increasing anti-vaccine activism, may result in low uptake of the adult vaccines this fall.
As for Covid-19 cases, there has been a recent increase in hospitalizations since early July. While the weekly hospitalizations are still lower than in previous waves, there has been a 60% increase over the course of a month. Updated Covid-19 vaccines to boost antibodies against new variants are on the way, but they won’t be available for another month or so.
Experts also stress the importance of antiviral medications for older patients who may be at risk of severe disease from Covid-19. Often, these medications are underused because people don’t initially appear sick enough to need them. However, it is recommended that individuals over the age of 60 get tested promptly and begin taking antiviral medications to decrease their risk.
Looking ahead, experts predict that Covid-19 cases will increase again this winter, along with the flu and other respiratory viruses. The flu season is expected to start in November and peak after the New Year. The US may get some hints about the flu season by monitoring trends in Australia, which is currently experiencing its own flu season.
Overall, while there may be challenges in vaccine access and uptake, experts remain optimistic that this year’s respiratory virus season won’t reach the same levels of severity as the previous year. The availability of vaccines and antiviral medications, along with continued precautions like masking and social distancing, will play a crucial role in mitigating the impact of these viruses.