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Dear USET/USET SPF Family,
The USET Office of Tribal Public Health (OTPH) is committed in keeping USET member Tribal Nations informed with proactive information that is essential for protecting individual and Tribal Nation communities. As we approach the fall and winter months, it is crucial to prepare for the respiratory illness season, which often sees a rise in cases of influenza, COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and other related infections.
Current Health Trends
- COVID-19: Nationwide, there is ongoing elevated activity, with increased emergency room visits, and hospitalizations, particularly among older adults (65+) and young children (under two). COVID-19 surges can occur at any time, including during the summer months.
- Influenza: Flu activity remains relatively low across the country.
- RSV: RSV activity is also low.
- Parvovirus B19: The CDC has noted increased activity of parvovirus B19, a respiratory virus spread through respiratory droplets from symptomatic or asymptomatic individuals. This virus has been observed at higher rates in the general population and is notably increasing among children aged 5–9 years.
Key Respiratory Viruses to Be Aware Of
During the respiratory season, several viruses commonly cause illness, including:
- Influenza (Flu)
- COVID-19
- RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)
- Common Cold (Rhinovirus/Enterovirus)
- Parainfluenza
- Fifth Disease (Parvovirus B19)
Symptoms can vary but may include:
- Fever and chills
- Extreme tiredness
- Persistent cough
- Runny or congested nose
- Sore throat
- Muscle aches
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe symptoms like difficulty breathing or chest pain.
Who Is at Greater Risk?
Certain populations are at greater risk for severe illness:
- Older Adults: With compromised immune systems and pre-existing conditions.
- Young Children: With developing immune systems and smaller airways.
- Individuals with Weakened Immune Systems: Those with chronic health conditions or disabilities.
- Pregnant Individuals: Due to physiological changes that increase vulnerability to severe illness.
Prevention Tips and Suggestions
- Vaccinations:
- Flu Vaccine: Recommended annually for everyone aged 6 months and older.
- COVID-19 Vaccine: The 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine is advised for all individuals aged 6 months and older, particularly important for those at higher risk.
- RSV Vaccine: Available for adults 60 years or older and pregnant people between 32- and 36-weeks’ gestation
- RSV Immunization: Antibody medication for infants under two years old
- Consult your healthcare provider to determine eligibility and scheduling of these vaccines/immunizations
- Hygiene and Practices:
- Hand Washing: Regularly wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds or two renditions of ‘Happy Birthday’.
- Ventilation: Ensure good airflow in living and working environments.
- Stay Home When Ill: Isolate until symptoms improve and fever subsides for at least 24 hours.
- Masks and Social Distancing: Continue using these practices as needed to reduce virus transmission.
- Seek Prompt Treatment: Effective treatments are available for flu and COVID-19, particularly for those at higher risk of severe complications.
Clearing Up Misconceptions
- Myth: "It's better to get COVID-19 than to get vaccinated."
- Fact: Vaccination are safer and a more reliable way to build protection against COVID-19 than experiencing an infection.
- Myth: "Vaccines for flu and COVID-19 are unnecessary if you’ve had these illnesses."
- Fact: Even if you had previous infections, vaccines are crucial for updated protection against current strains.
OTPH will continue to monitor the rise in cases of these respiratory illnesses and will ensure USET Tribal Nations are kept informed. For additional information or for clinical guidance, please see the sources below. The USET TEC is available to assist with any questions or concerns. Please do not hesitate to contact us at usetepi@usetinc.org.
Sources
Influenza (Flu) | Health Topics (ihs.gov)
Staying Up to Date with COVID-19 Vaccines | COVID-19 | CDC
About Respiratory Illnesses | Respiratory Illnesses | CDC
2024-2025 Respiratory Disease Season Outlook | CFA: Qualitative Assessments | CDC
Influenza Vaccination: A Summary for Clinicians | CDC
Health Alert Network (HAN) - 00514 | Increase in Human Parvovirus B19 Activity in the United States (cdc.gov)
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