Health department reporting significant increases locally in COVID-19, Influenza A and RSV

QUINCY — The Adams County Health Department reported Tuesday that the number of respiratory illnesses in the area is increasing. Locally, significant increases have been seen in COVID-19, Influenza A and RSV in the past few weeks. There has also been an increase in the number of hospitalizations due to Influenza and COVID-19.

As these respiratory illnesses continue to circulate through the community and children return to school after winter break, residents are encouraged to follow the following guidelines to protect themselves and others:

• Receive vaccines, if eligible. Vaccines are the best defense against severe illness and death caused by RSV, influenza, COVID-19 and pneumonia.
• Wash your hands. Frequent handwashing is an easy and effective way to stay healthy and slow the spread of germs.
• Practice cough etiquette. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your elbow, not your hands.
• Stay home if you’re sick. Residents who have symptoms should stay home, get tested and seek treatment when necessary.

The Adams County Health Department offers walk-in immunizations from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

RSV vaccines are now available for infants and pregnant women as well as adults ages 75 and older. Influenza and COVID-19 vaccines are available for everyone six months and older. Pneumonia vaccines are available for adults ages 50 and older as well as adults with chronic conditions who are 19 years and older.

People wishing to be vaccinated should bring their photo ID and insurance cards.