The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned of a surge in four respiratory diseases this winter: COVID-19, influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and childhood pneumonia.
Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO’s chief epidemiologist, said in a statement that the WHO is continuing to assess the situation and recommends following the organization’s public health advice to keep families and friends safe during the holiday season.
Van Kerkhove noted that COVID-19 is not the only respiratory disease circulating, with influenza, RSV, and childhood pneumonia also on the rise.
She urged people to take steps to protect themselves from infection and severe illness using all available tools, and to ensure they receive clinical care if they become infected.
These measures include:
• Wearing a mask when in crowded, enclosed, or poorly ventilated spaces, and maintaining a safe distance from others, as much as possible.
• Ensuring proper ventilation.
• Practicing respiratory etiquette, such as covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
• Frequently washing your hands.
• Getting vaccinated against COVID-19 and influenza, especially if you are at high risk of severe illness.
• Staying home if you are sick.
• Getting tested if you develop symptoms, or if you have been in contact with someone who is infected with COVID-19 or influenza.
The WHO said that it is important to take all of these measures, as they can help to protect you from all four respiratory diseases.
The organization also noted that the best way to protect yourself from COVID-19 is to get vaccinated and boosted, and to follow other public health measures, such as wearing a mask and social distancing.
The WHO said that it is working closely with countries to track the spread of these respiratory diseases and to ensure that people have access to the care they need.
