As a licensed therapist with a passion for promoting wellness, I want to share the latest updates on the rise of respiratory illnesses in Lancaster County. The Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department has reported an increase in COVID-19 cases, flu infections, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). In the week ending December 16, there were 233 new COVID-19 cases, along with a notable increase in viral particles detected through wastewater testing. The flu positivity rate has also risen to 10.6%, compared to 5.6% the previous week. While RSV remains high, there has been a slight decrease in the positivity rate. It is crucial for everyone to take preventive actions and get vaccinated. I recommend getting vaccinated for flu, COVID-19, and RSV, as well as considering a COVID-19 test if you have symptoms or have been exposed to someone with the virus. Additionally, remember to stay home if you’re feeling unwell, wash your hands frequently, cover your coughs and sneezes, wear a mask if you have symptoms, and regularly clean and disinfect surfaces. Vaccines for flu and COVID-19 can be found at vaccines.gov, and specific age groups are eligible for the RSV vaccine. At-home COVID-19 test kits are also available. For more information and resources, visit the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department website, where you can find FAQs about respiratory illnesses, a respiratory illness dashboard, and a COVID-19 dashboard. Stay informed, stay safe, and let’s protect our community together.
The Rise of Respiratory Illnesses
Respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19, flu, and RSV, have been on the rise in Lancaster County. The Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department has reported a significant increase in the number of COVID-19 cases, as well as an uptick in viral particles detected through wastewater testing. The flu positivity rate has also seen a notable rise compared to the previous week. It is crucial to stay informed about these trends and take necessary precautions to protect ourselves and our community.
When it comes to COVID-19, it is important to follow guidelines provided by health authorities. This includes getting vaccinated, practicing good hand hygiene, wearing masks in public settings, and maintaining social distancing. Similarly, getting vaccinated for the flu and RSV can help reduce the risk of infection and its spread. By staying informed and taking preventive measures, we can work together to mitigate the impact of these respiratory illnesses.
Preventive Measures and Vaccinations
Prevention is key when it comes to respiratory illnesses. The Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department recommends several preventive measures to reduce the risk of COVID-19, flu, and RSV:
1. Vaccination:
Getting vaccinated is one of the most effective ways to protect against respiratory illnesses. Vaccines for flu and COVID-19 are widely available and can be found at vaccines.gov. Specific age groups are eligible for the RSV vaccine.
2. Testing:
If you have symptoms or have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, it is important to get tested. At-home COVID-19 test kits are available for convenience and accessibility.
3. Stay Home if Sick:
If you’re feeling unwell, it is crucial to stay home and avoid contact with others to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses.
4. Hand Hygiene:
Washing hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds helps eliminate germs and reduce the risk of infection.
5. Mask Usage:
Wearing masks in public settings, especially if you have symptoms, can help prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses.
6. Cover Coughs and Sneezes:
Use a tissue or your elbow to cover your coughs and sneezes to prevent the spread of respiratory droplets.
7. Clean and Disinfect:
Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces to reduce the risk of contamination.
Available Resources and Dashboards
The Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department provides valuable resources and dashboards to help individuals stay informed about respiratory illnesses:
1. FAQs:
Visit the LLCHD website for frequently asked questions about respiratory illnesses. This resource provides answers to common queries and concerns.
2. Respiratory Illness Dashboard:
Stay updated on the latest trends and statistics related to respiratory illnesses in Lancaster County through the LLCHD’s respiratory illness dashboard.
3. COVID-19 Dashboard:
Access the COVID-19 dashboard for real-time updates on COVID-19 cases, testing, and vaccination rates in the county.
By utilizing these resources, individuals can access accurate and up-to-date information to make informed decisions and protect themselves and their loved ones.
