“Beware the Big Four: How to Stay Healthy During the Holiday Season”

As the holiday season approaches, families and friends are gearing up to celebrate together, but they should also be aware of the circulating pathogens that come along with the festivities. Infectious disease specialist Peter Chin-Hong from UC San Francisco has identified the “Big Four” viruses to watch out for: influenza, COVID-19, RSV, and norovirus.

According to data from WastewaterScan, a monitoring network led by researchers at Stanford and Emory universities, these four viruses are currently running hot around the nation. COVID-19 is particularly prevalent in the eastern half of the U.S., while the Western states are seeing lower levels with some hot spots in major cities.

Flu season is also a major concern this year, with early indicators from the United Kingdom and South America showing a significant increase in flu cases compared to previous years. While the CDC’s outlook for the severity of the flu season is low, experts like Chin-Hong are keeping a close eye on the situation.

Chin-Hong emphasized the importance of vaccination against the flu, as well as following preventive measures such as frequent handwashing and proper ventilation. He also highlighted the potential threat of H5N1 bird flu and the importance of keeping the seasonal flu at bay to prevent any potential mixing of viruses.

In addition to the flu, COVID-19, RSV, and norovirus are also circulating, posing a threat to public health. Chin-Hong advised following the “three V’s”: vaccinate, ventilate, and wash hands frequently to prevent the spread of these respiratory viruses. Masks can also be effective in indoor settings, but outdoor gatherings are preferable.

For norovirus, which causes gastrointestinal distress, hand hygiene is crucial in preventing transmission. Chin-Hong noted that norovirus seems to be widespread currently, with many people experiencing symptoms. In addition, other viruses like rhinovirus, pertussis, and walking pneumonia are also circulating.

Ultimately, Chin-Hong stressed the importance of staying home if feeling unwell, as isolating oneself can help prevent the spread of contagious illnesses. While the holiday season is a time for celebration, it’s essential to prioritize health and safety to avoid falling victim to the circulating pathogens.