Rising Covid and Flu Cases Pose Holiday Health Concerns

The director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Dr. Mandy Cohen, warns that the U.S. is not yet near the peak of flu or Covid cases for the season. Flu levels are currently rising, particularly in the south, while Covid cases are also climbing nationally. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) has reached its highest point this season, but it is not causing strains on pediatric hospitals like last year. The JN.1 variant of Covid, accounting for 21% of cases, is more transmissible but vaccines should still offer good protection. The CDC has issued an alert about low vaccination rates for Covid, flu, and RSV. The flu shot appears to be a good match for circulating strains, and updated Covid vaccines provide protection against the JN.1 variant. Cohen advises considering the risks to others when making holiday plans.