Infections with common respiratory illnesses RSV and the flu are rising in the U.S., alongside new COVID-19 variants, leading to a 'tripledemic.' Dr. Bayo Curry-Winchell explains why these three illnesses are rising at the same time, how parents know when to seek emergency medical attention for their children, and common-sense health measures that can keep anyone safe.

RSV, Flu, and COVID-19 'Tripledemic:' How to Stay Safe in Winter 2022

Yeah. And we have a higher than average RsV numbers in this country and experts are predicting a tough flu season ahead. And by the way there's still Covid to worry about as well. So let's bring dr bio curry, windchill urgent care medical director over at carbon Health and ST mary's hospital. Dr such a pleasure to have you here this morning. Thank you so much for joining us. Would you explain to us what a Triple des Mick is and why we keep hearing that so often. So when we talk about a Triple des Mc, we are talking about covid flu and unfortunately a rise of cases of RSV and so when you have all three, that is a concern because each one really carries risks and complications that can lead to hospitalization. So it's something that we have to take note of because it's really concerning, especially this early in the flu season and doctor let's focus for a minute on RsV since that's the new one that a lot of people aren't familiar with. And a lot of parents are really concerned about their kids right now with RsV uh why is it exploding right now? And what exactly is it? So there are multiple reasons why we know that because of the pandemic, our little ones were really isolated and so they weren't really exposed to the things that they normally were. And so their immune systems have, you know slightly weakened as well as now we have an uptick of Covid and as well as the flu. And so all together we have really seen a rise in this disease that we've never seen before And as a parent myself, you know, it's something that we have to take note and really be mindful to look for those symptoms. And so, given the symptoms were shown right here and the things we need to know at what point should we seek emergency medical attention? If we believe that our child has RSV. So, first, I always say, you know, as a parent myself, if there is something that doesn't look right for your child, definitely bring them in. But some of the things that you should look for is if your child is having an increased work of breathing, meaning you're seeing their chest or their stomach really retract or second. Or if you're seeing a discoloration along the fingers, at the nails and so forth. And the lips that can be a sign that they're having a hard time breathing as well as they often won't eat as much just because they're really struggling to breathe. So, if any of those symptoms or just, you know, your intuition as a parent, go in and have your child be seen? Okay? So what are some of the high risk factors for more severe RSV flu or even covid symptoms here? So, if your child is less than six months of age, if your child has any health conditions, such as heart disease, lung disease and as well as if you're an older adult, meaning over the age of 65. However, if you have any underlying health conditions, that can increase your risk for any of these illnesses, okay, so what are the best things that we can do? Whether it's, you know, rsv the flu or covid to try to keep ourselves safe? Well, you know, of course, the easy answer is always get vaccinated. But for those who can't get vaccinated, it's really important to wash your hands. I always say even before the pandemic, that was important. So, you know, continue to wash your hands, wipe down surfaces. All of those things can really help as well as if you're going to be, you know, in a large crowd proud and you're unsure of the status of others wear a mask that doesn't, you know, um cause any harm. If anything, it can really help you, Your family and your loved ones stay safe. Yeah. All good tips, especially during the winter months coming ahead. Alright. Doctor bio, thank you so much for sharing your expertise and helping us all stay safe this winter