SANTA ANA, Calif.—Citing a record number of pediatric hospitalizations and emergency room visits, Orange County was under a health emergency declaration Oct. 1, with the county health officer pointing to a sharp rise in cases of the respiratory infection RSV, combined with COVID-19 and flu.
Cases of RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, have been on the rise nationally, exacerbating a health system still coping with the COVID pandemic and an earlier-than-usual onset of flu season.
“While there isn’t a vaccine against RSV, … there are many ways to protect children and at-risk individuals. Following preventive measures, including remaining up to date with other vaccinations such as flu and COVID-19, can help reduce the severity of disease and can help reduce the burden on hospitals this fall and winter,” Orange County Health Officer Dr. Regina Chinsio-Kwong said in a statement….