Norovirus, COVID-19, RSV numbers up in Milwaukee
MILWAUKEE - A pharmacy and the Milwaukee Health Department both say they're seeing an increase in respiratory illnesses which is typical at this time of year.
But there's a virus on the rise that's not so common that health officials are warning about.
Hayat Pharmacy primary care pharmacist Brian Bock said he's seen an increase in people dealing with a stomach bug. It's just now arriving on the scene.
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Some of the symptoms are diarrhea, headaches and muscle aches along with a low-grade fever.
"It’s just one of those things making sure you have an effort to wash your hands, taking your vitamins and eating well," Bock said.
As friends and family get together for the holidays, norovirus is making the rounds.
Symptoms usually start one or two days after exposure. The increase in stomach flu cases is on top of all the other things going around.
Norovirus outbreaks surge across US: What you need to know
Norovirus outbreaks are surging in the United States this winter, with 91 cases reported in early December, a significant rise from previous years, according to CDC data.
"Respiratory season has certainly arrived," said Lindsey Page, director of the Milwaukee Health Department's infectious disease program. "There's a lot going on right now."
A check of the Milwaukee Health Department's dashboard shows seasonal COVID-19 and RSV cases are up from the beginning of December.
The flu is just starting to increase too.
"A lot of holiday gatherings – we have people [doing] a lot more social interaction," Page said. "We’re kind of forced indoors when it's cold."
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And don't forget about the common cold.
Bock said he is also seeing people come with symptoms like congestion.
His advice is simple: get vaccinated and stay hydrated.
"The season is not necessarily over; it will go towards the end of March and April," Bock said.
To check out the city's respiratory illness dashboard, visit the Milwaukee Health Department's website.