The number of respiratory illnesses including the flu, RSV, and COVID-19 are expected to be high in January and February, according to infectious disease experts.
Dr. Suman Radhakrishna, an infectious disease specialist at Dignity Health California Hospital Medical Center, says she has seen many patients with double infections, including RSV plus COVID and influenza plus COVID.
Most people’s immune systems become weaker when they contract RSV, and the virus’s combination with other infections such as influenza and COVID-19 cause severe illness among patients.
Pregnant women and people over 60 are highly susceptible to RSV, and Dr. Radhakrishna recommends discussing RSV vaccination with their doctor.
Los Angeles County has mandated mask-wearing for staff and visitors at all licensed healthcare facilities and within transportation hubs and public transit.
New York has imposed a mandate similar to L.A. County’s.
