Hospitals in South Jersey are experiencing an increase in patients with respiratory illnesses as influenza cases rise across the United States. Medical centers, including those operated by Virtua Health, are preparing for a surge in emergency room visits related to respiratory infections, particularly influenza A, along with a notable uptick in COVID-19 and RSV cases.
The situation has led to heightened concerns among healthcare providers. According to Dr. Martin Topiel, chief of infection prevention at Virtua Health, “We’re seeing many emergency room visits related to respiratory infections of all kinds. Certainly, flu is a major part of that.”
The impact of this respiratory illness surge extends beyond hospitals. Workers across communities report widespread illness. Alex Schmidt, who works in a nursing home in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, noted, “There’s a lot of people who have been sick lately. A lot of flu.” The education sector is also feeling the effects, with schools reporting significant absenteeism. “Working at an elementary school in Haddonfield, it’s really impacted our elementary schools, with people traveling,” said Amy Fanrak of Pennsauken, New Jersey.
As the cold and flu season intensifies, many residents are taking extra precautions to minimize the risk of contracting or spreading illness. Molly Kaminski, accompanied by her infant daughter, shared, “We’ve just been trying to stay away from folks, not in any restaurants or anything like that. We’ve also gotten the flu shot.” Others are adopting daily preventive measures. “I mask up, take my Vitamin C, try to stay active, because that helps too,” Schmidt added.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), New Jersey is among the states experiencing “very high” flu activity. The presence of multiple viruses complicates the diagnosis of specific illnesses based solely on symptoms. In response, many individuals are utilizing combination over-the-counter tests that detect both flu A, flu B, and COVID-19.
Dr. Topiel emphasized the reliability of positive test results but cautioned against placing too much trust in negative results. “The problem is if the tests are negative, it really doesn’t rule out COVID, it doesn’t rule out influenza,” he explained. “It might mean there’s a low viral level, but it still might cause significant symptoms.”
Health experts advise individuals experiencing symptoms that could easily spread to others to remain home. Dr. Topiel stated, “If you have fever, significant cough, a lot of mucus production, you’re really risking transmitting to others.” Furthermore, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. Signs such as wheezing, shortness of breath, or chest pain should prompt a visit to the hospital. Those with a history of heart problems are also encouraged to consult with their physicians.
As hospitals brace for a potential wave of respiratory cases, the emphasis remains on prevention and awareness. Community members are encouraged to stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and those around them during this challenging winter season.
