What is the tripledemic?
The term "tripledemic" describes the potential for influenza, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) to all be on the rise simultaneously.
Are the tripledemic viruses the only winter respiratory viruses to protect yourself against?
Winter respiratory viruses are not limited to tripledemic viruses. There are also less prevalent ones like adenovirus, human metapneumovirus, and rhinovirus.
How serious is the tripledemic?
Here are some important facts that show how serious the tripledemic could be:
- Flu-related hospitalizations in the United States this season are at the highest level in a decade.
- RSV has been straining children's hospitals since the early fall, with ten states reporting pediatric hospital beds at an occupancy rate of 90% or higher. You can check out more facts about respiratory syncytial virus here.
- There have been about 650 million confirmed cases of COVID-19 since 2020 and about 6.6 million deaths.
- Since the beginning of October, about 78,000 people have been hospitalized with the flu and 4,500 have died.
- Since October 1, 2022, there have been 8.7 million flu-related illnesses reported, compared to 9 million illnesses reported for the entire 2021–2022 flu season.
- Older people and people with chronic medical conditions are more likely to be hospitalized due to the tripledemic in the US.
How does cold weather affect the prevalence of tripledemic viruses?
The tripledemic is on the rise because winter forces people indoors and closer together for extended periods. That proximity helps the virus spread quickly from one person to another.
How do these viruses spread?
When an infected person sneezes or coughs, it creates droplets which help the virus spread. When another person inhales the droplets or touches a surface contaminated with droplets, they can become sick.
What are the symptoms of the tripledemic viruses?
The symptoms of the viruses in the tripledemic are similar to those of a respiratory tract infection. They include runny nose, sneezing, coughing, and decreased appetite. In severe cases, symptoms may include infections of the lower respiratory tract, such as pneumonia, or they can exacerbate underlying disorders, which can result in hospitalization or even death.
Who is at risk during the tripledemic?
Anyone can become sick with tripledemic viruses. However, those who are 65 years of age or older, immunocompromised individuals, those with underlying conditions, and small children are most at risk of severe complications.
What preventative measures can I take?
Vaccines are the most effective preventative measure for both COVID-19 and influenza. RSV does not yet have an FDA-approved vaccine, but it is in development.
To stay safe, you should get your flu shot as soon as possible. You should also consider scheduling an appointment at any nearby CVS, Walgreens, or Rite Aid pharmacy for your COVID-19 vaccine or booster dose.
Will the vaccine prevent me from getting sick?
Although the vaccine won't stop you from getting sick, it will lessen your chances of experiencing severe symptoms or serious complications if you do contract one or more of the viruses.
What are other ways to protect myself?
Other precautions to take include:
- washing your hands frequently
- avoiding people who are coughing and sneezing
- remaining indoors if you're ill
- using a mask when in public
- contacting your healthcare practitioner if you have any concerns about your health
What if I can’t afford to get vaccinated?
Cost shouldn't be a reason to avoid getting the immunizations you need to protect yourself and your family. Use an RxLess discount card to get your medications up to 88% off the retail price. Follow this guide on how to get and use your RxLess discount card.
