Public health officials advise the public to practice safety measures during the ongoing flu season.
Typically, influenza season is in September, then RSV season in November, followed by other viruses in between, according to Dr. Bob. Leon Guerrero during a public health meeting.
He says these seasons were not as impactful during the height of the pandemic due to individuals practicing safety precautions like mask-wearing and social distancing.
However, this is no longer the case, as these measures have been relaxed. As a result, children are the population most affected.
Dr. Leon Guerrero highlighted that, at one point, thirty children were hospitalized due to the flu and other respiratory viruses.
However, he clarifies that it is not that children’s immune systems are worse off compared to COVID; it is due to children’s exposure to these viruses for the first time.
Public health officials advise the community to get their flu shot, get vaccinated, and practice safety protocols, as a surge of illness is expected in the fall and during this holiday season.
Dr. Leon Guerrero said, “I think if we kind of use common sense– and still if someone is sick, make sure their social distancing, wear a mask– and by all means, please get your kids vaccinated– not only for COVID but also, for the flu.”
