Data Shows Record-Breaking Cold and Flu Season

This winter season is proving to be one of the most difficult in recent memory, with high levels of respiratory illness from Covid-19, R.S.V., and the flu. Hospitalizations for R.S.V. have driven pediatric hospitalizations to the highest recorded level, and flu hospitalizations are the highest for this time of year in more than a decade. While R.S.V. hospitalizations appear to be peaking, experts warn that a 'tripledemic' of Covid-19, flu, and R.S.V. will continue to strain the healthcare system. Older Americans remain vulnerable to severe illness from Covid-19 and the flu, and public health officials are urging people to get vaccinated. Vaccination rates, however, remain low for all age groups. With a whole lot of winter left, experts are warning that the situation could get worse before it gets better.