Colds, the flu, whooping cough, and the stomach bug, all winter illnesses that are in full swing.
KATU spoke with Alexis Smithers, an advanced practice provider at Legacy-GoHealth Urgent Care.
“In the winter, it makes sense. We’re inside, we’re spending time together, we’re close to other people,” she said. “There’s not great ventilation. And so I think that that’s just a big contributor to it.”
Experts say Norovirus is surging across the US. The CDC reported 128 outbreaks in the7-day period ending the second of January.
That’s the highest number for this time of year since 2012.
Smithers said norovirus is a very resilient virus that can live on surfaces for multiple days. Hand washing and disinfecting surfaces are recommended.
“Like in the bathroom, particularly with norovirus, keep the doorknobs, the faucet, wipe those downs with an antiseptic wipe, silverware, soap and water or get it through the dishwasher,” she advised. “Basically shared surfaces that are high touch, we got to keep up on cleaning those.”
READ MORE: Over 800 whooping cough cases reported in Oregon, one death confirmed
She warned that we may see a higher rate of these viruses spreading post pandemic as people start to re-engage in activities and neglect good hygiene practices. Pandemic fatigue, defined by the WHO as feeling demotivated about following recommended practices to protect ourselves and others from the viruses, may also play a role in increasing cases.
“Maybe even more so now, having realized how important that was in their life before and how much they enjoyed getting out there and spending time with others.” Smithers said.
