The Seattle Times reported that, “The U.S. is in a big COVID wave.”
According to Yale medicine and PBS, “Infections and hospitalizations are on the rise this winter.” And, “The CDC is warning that there is a 'massive' increase of the flu across the U.S.” The Herald asked Lindstrom to comment on how Pacific County has been affected. Lindstrom replied, “In the county, JN.1 cases are on the rise. Cases are currently rising in Pacific County. We are seeing numbers increasing to similar levels as last year at this time. Hopefully, it will not be as severe as in early 2022.”
In regard to the flu, Lindstrom said, “Flu has been surging across the U.S., and working its way through Pacific County. We are seeing increased rates, but not as high rates as last year’s early surge. It seems to be more 'slow and steady' as it affects Pacific County residents.”
Asked if the new Covid variant is similar to Omicron, or is it more severe, Lindstrom said. “At this time, it appears to be similar to Omicron in regards to 'severity.' It is unclear whether it has better immune system 'escapability' at this time, but initial testing of the updated vaccines shows that they are effective against this variant. So, immunity from previous infection may not be as great of a protection, but it appears the updated vaccine that’s available is helping.”
Lindstrom went to describe the symptoms of JN.1, which are many. “The symptoms are similar to other COVID variants: sore throat, congestion, runny nose, cough, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, fever or chills, loss of sense of taste or smell, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea...Lindstrom added, “Nothing has stuck out so far as a tell-tale series of symptoms for this variant.”
In closing, Lindstrom said, “RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) is still present in Pacific County as well. We have some fluctuations, but that’s also another one that has been very high across the US this year. As always, we continue to urge everyone to be proactive in helping to prevent catching or spreading COVID and other respiratory illnesses. You can do this by washing your hands, wearing a mask if you are high-risk or actively contagious, and staying home, and testing, if you are sick.”
Lindstrom added that “free tests are available at the local libraries and health department locations. We are always available by phone for anyone with questions at 360-875-9343.”
