Respiratory Illnesses on the Rise: What You Should Know

Dan Breece, DO; Vice President of Physician Services and Chief Medical Officer shares expert insight on the rise of flu, COVID, and other respiratory illnesses. Learn how you can prevent these illnesses and where to go when you need care!

Flu, COVID, and other respiratory illnesses are a major concern right now. What trends are Emergency Departments currently seeing?

“All of our Emergency Departments—including those in Athens, Belpre, Marietta, and Sistersville—are seeing a significant increase in patients with respiratory illnesses, especially flu and COVID. Many people are experiencing symptoms that range from mild to severe, and our emergency teams are working as hard as they can to ensure we’re providing the care to those who need it most, whether that be the more severe cases of respiratory illnesses or other life-threatening conditions.”

What are the best ways to prevent illness in the first place?

“Prevention is key from any respiratory illness, including the flu and COVID cases we are overwhelmed with currently. Getting the flu vaccination each year, washing your hands as much as possible, covering your coughs and sneezes, wearing a mask in public if you have symptoms, and staying home if you’re sick. These may seem like simple things to do, but helping to reduce the spread of illness and protecting others from it are the best options we have.”

If someone feels sick, what are the best treatment options?

“Rest and hydration, at home, are the first steps. If symptoms continue but are not as severe, we encourage patients to schedule with their primary care provider or visit our Physicians Care Express locations for evaluation and treatment. Seeking care in the right places helps prevent unnecessary emergency department visits. The last thing anyone wants when they feel unwell is to be waiting in a waiting room, but with surges such as this—and other unpredictable emergency care cases—the wait can be long.”

When should someone seek emergency care for a respiratory illness?

“Emergency care is necessary for severe or life-threatening symptoms. These illnesses are brutal, and Emergency Departments can often be the only option available when urgent care locations or primary care providers aren’t available; however, that doesn’t always mean it’s the best option for care. Now if you or someone else are experiencing difficulty breathing, chest pain or pressure, confusion, or a high fever lasting more than three days—especially one that spikes at 103°F or more, it’s time to go to the Emergency Department.”

Any additional advice for the community?

“Stay proactive with prevention and take the appropriate steps when seeking care. Stay
home, rest, and hydrate. If you need further care, Physicians Care Express or a primary care provider. If you have life-threatening symptoms, go to the Emergency Department. By working together, we can keep everyone safe and our care streamlined.”

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