Experts advise ‘common sense approach’ to viruses this spring

DAYTON, Ohio ( WDTN ) — Though respiratory viruses are declining across the state, experts say you need to remain aware.

Health officials say respiratory viruses spike during colder months and then drop once warmer temperatures come in March. However, that trend will be tested over the next week and a half.

As temperatures rise and people gather at large-number outdoor events for activities like the eclipse and opening day for baseball, cases could also rise.

“If you are going to be out in those large gatherings, understand that you are at a little higher risk of contracting. Some of those folks are going to be out there. They’re going to be sick and not even know it yet. And they may be shedding these viruses,” said Joseph Allen, regional medical director at Premier Health.

The Ohio Department of Health says springtime normally marks the beginning of the decline in these viruses. However, flu numbers remain high compared to other respiratory illnesses.

“That’s exactly what we’re seeing in Ohio right now. The rates of COVID-19 and RSV have been declining dramatically in recent weeks. Last week, there were 2,719 COVID cases reported statewide. That was a 40% drop from what was reported just two weeks earlier,” said Bruce Venderhoff, Director of the Ohio Department of Health.

When it comes to getting ahead of your health, officials say to take the common sense approach. Stay home if you are sick, monitor your symptoms for 24 hours, and don’t be afraid to mask up.

“You want to follow those those things that we all talked about when we dealt with COVID three or four years ago. And if you’re sick, you have a fever or you’re feeling ill, stay away from folks,” said Allen.

“Not a whole lot of people are going to look at you too funny if you put a mask on. Right. We’ve seen folks that are wearing masks. It’s becoming more common in our culture. I think five, six years ago, that would have been a problem. We would have looked at it a little funny. But now it’s it’s somewhat expected. If we see it now, it’s no big deal. We’re used to that now.”

Officials say the best way to protect yourself and your family is to stay up to date on vaccinations. If symptoms get worse, visit a doctor.

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