As health officials across the country continue to monitor the rise in cases of flu, COVID-19, and RSV, they are becoming increasingly concerned about a possible triple epidemic of illnesses. Emergency rooms are preparing for a surge in patients as these three diseases continue to spread.

In recent weeks, the Centers for Disease Control reported over 780,000 flu illnesses and nearly 500 deaths from October until last week. Dr. Brownstein, a physician, shared that certain age groups and individuals with prior medical conditions are more vulnerable to severe cases and even death from these three illnesses.

“For those that are the youngest, those are the oldest,” Brownstein said. “For those who have underlying conditions, the flu infection can be especially deadly.” While flu hospitalizations have been lower than they were at this time last year, there is a similar pattern of spikes in southern states.

Meanwhile, many veterans are at risk of losing their homes after the COVID mortgage forbearance program ends. This has added an additional layer of stress and uncertainty to an already difficult situation for many families. As health officials continue to work tirelessly to combat these three diseases, it is important for individuals to take steps to protect themselves and their loved ones from getting sick.