Coughs, sniffles and sore throats are making a comeback in Southeast Louisiana.
But LSU Health infectious disease expert Dr. MarkAllain Déry says this time, it’s not COVID or the flu leading the charge, it’s RSV.
“For the first time in a long time, COVID numbers are the lowest we’ve seen,” Déry says. “Flu cases are just starting to rise, but we don’t expect to see significant activity until about January. Right now, RSV is the main culprit.”
RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, can be especially dangerous for infants and older adults, sometimes landing them in the hospital with only comfort care available.
Déry says vaccines can help protect those most vulnerable, and for everyone else, the virus often looks and feels like a common cold though it spreads easily.
“Listening to Grandma is still the best advice,” Déry says. “Get some exercise, eat your fruits and vegetables, drink plenty of water and wash your hands every time you think about it.”