Flu-related hospitalizations at highest rate in 10 years; Blessing official says vaccinations first line of defense

QUINCY — Statistics from the Center for Disease Control show the United States is experiencing its highest rate of flu-related hospitalizations in the past 10 years. 

Other respiratory diseases, such as COVID and respiratory syncytial virus, also are on the rise as we move through autumn.

“We’ve seen a handful of RSV kids admitted here at Blessing so far, and we’ve seen an unusually high number of RSV infections for this time of year,” said Dr. Mary Frances Barthel, chief quality and safety officer and the lead for infection prevention at Blessing Health System.

Barthel says there is no vaccine for RSV, which is particularly active among infants. It’s all about monitoring the symptoms.

“If they start developing a lot of wheezing or a significant cough or fever, then that would be some cause for concern,” Barthel said. “Any shortness of breath and increased effort with respiration, that kind of thing.”  

She suggests if you see these symptoms, call your family doctor.

With the high rate of the flu already present in the country, vaccinations are the first line of defense. Although imperfect, vaccinations for several diseases are worth the effort this time of year.

 “The flu shot that’s 60 to 70 percent effective is considered a good year,” Barthel said. “But even if you do get it (the flu), it tends to be a less severe case where you don’t end up in the hospital.”

If everyone expected that the COVID vaccine would 100 percent prevent infection, Barthel said their expectations were a little high.

“I think it does work,” she said. “It also works to reduce the severity of the illness, just like the flu shot.”

Barthel and her team work closely with the Adams County Health Department and Quincy Public Schools. 

Brandy Kirby, nursing director for Quincy Public Schools, says continued student training places an emphasis on standard preventative measures such as hand-washing and coughing etiquette. Nancy Hill, compliance and education nurse for QPS, will be visiting classrooms for continued education at the K-5 levels.

Kirby, who has been with the district for 10 years, says when the department sees or hears about outbreaks, emails go out to the parents. 

“We ask parents to abide by our sick day guidelines so that we can prevent the spread as well,” she said.

As colder days approach and students stay indoors more frequently (plus the COVID experience of the past few years), a subtle prod now and then doesn’t hurt.

“It’s always good to be reminded of things.” Kirby says. “Sometimes you’re coughing and you’re just not realizing that you’re not covering your cough. Or you’re not washing your hands every time you should be. I just think it’s always a good reminder. There probably are a lot of students who are more diligent than they used to be before COVID.”

Click here for more information about the Quincy Public School’s sick-day guidelines.