Health officials warn of rise of seasonal ills

As temperatures start to drop this season, it’s common for there to be a rise in the number of flu, covid, and RSV cases in the area.

According to officials with Plains Regional Medical Center in Clovis and Roosevelt General Hospital in Portales, covid cases are trending upward. However, today’s numbers are still nothing compared to what was seen in 2021.

“The volume tends to be comparable to patients seen last fall of 2022,” said Kaye Green, chief executive for RGH said.

At PRMC, there were two covid cases being treated heading into the weekend, which is significantly better than last year, according to Bill Priest, hospital chief executive.

“Fall and winter are a time when viruses that cause respiratory disease usually circulate more heavily in the community,” Priest said. “Due to the cold weather people are indoors more often, allowing viruses to pass more easily from one person to another. And the cold, dry air may weaken resistance.”

Dawn Bendzus, clinical care manager for RGH, said colder temperatures make it harder to prevent respiratory virus infections and they can negatively affect the body’s ability to defend against these sicknesses.

“This is the reason you tend to see peaks in the winter for influenza and RSV,” Bendzus said.

Over the past 60 days, two cases of RSV were confirmed at RGH. At PRMC, there are also two cases of RSV being treated.

As for the flu, numbers are remaining low so far. At PRMC, there were no hospitalizations related to the flu on Wednesday. For RGH, patients visiting with the flu are also low, but it’s anticipated that number will increase.

“We don’t usually experience a surge until December into January,” Bendzus said.

Covid, the flu, and RSV are both hospitals’ main concern this season, officials said. Covid’s most prevalent strain is EG.5, symptoms that most commonly include a runny nose, sore throat, and other cold-like symptoms.

With the holiday season quickly approaching, hospital officials said it’s important to stay safe and healthy while being around family and friends.

Those at RGH suggest:

• practicing good hand hygiene

• avoiding close contact with others who are ill

• staying at home if you are sick

• wearing a facemask if you must go out

• covering your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing

• cleaning and disinfecting surfaces at home, work, or school frequently — especially when someone has been in the area who was ill

“Prevent illness by getting a flu shot and staying up to date on covid boosters,” Priest added. He also suggests avoiding crowded indoor activities as a way to prevent the spread.

“If you feel you may have the flu, covid-19, or RSV, you can schedule an appointment at RGH Clinic for testing. Flu and covid-19 vaccinations, for both adults and pediatrics, are also available,” said Jeanette Orrantia, director of marketing and public relations for RGH.

PRMC also provides testing and vaccinations.