You've no doubt had people around you over the last couple of months come down with one of the many viruses converging this winter: Flu, COVID, RSV.
Missouri state epidemiologist Dr. George Turabelidze tells KMOX there is finally now a dip in the number of local cases of those illnesses, but respiratory season is only halfway past and the bugs can take a break, then rage back.
"We can have a second wave of infections even higher," he tells Total Information AM, adding, "each of these viruses can cause severe illness,"
When asked 'how do we protect ourselves?' he says good diet, sleep, exercise, and, perhaps, a flu, COVID, and for some even an RSV vaccine. Those are usually recommended for people 65 and older.
"Ultimately, this is your personal decision with your family and with your healthcare provider," Dr. Turabelidze says.
There is one notable exception that's still seeing cases grow: whooping cough, also known as pertussis. Vaccination rates are declining in the state among young children; from 95-percent before the pandemic to about 90-percent now, just below the national average. Dr. Turabelidze also points to evolving pertussis bacteria.