2025 Mar 14, 09:53
In the past few weeks, hospitals across the Phoenix Valley have been dealing with a surge in cases of COVID-19, the flu, and RSV, creating a triple threat of illnesses. According to the CDC, hospitalizations for these respiratory diseases have increased by nearly 200% across all age groups. Pediatric infectious disease specialist Wassim Ballan explains that this is the typical busy season for respiratory viruses, and it is currently in full swing. Parents like Caitlyn Murphy have experienced the impact of this increase firsthand, as her 7-month-old daughter was admitted to Phoenix Children's Hospital with RSV
Murphy emphasizes the seriousness of the illness and the rapid escalation it can cause. She describes her daughter's experience as the worst sickness she has gone through. The CDC adds that, in addition to holiday gatherings, fewer people are getting vaccinated for the flu, with 7.4 million fewer vaccinations compared to the previous season. Dr
Ballan emphasizes the importance of handwashing, staying home when sick, and getting vaccinated to prevent complicated infections that could lead to hospitalization.