San Antonio Doctors Encourage Safe Practices Against Respiratory Viruses
Doctors Stress Continued Vigilance Despite Decrease in Cases
March marks four years since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, and doctors across San Antonio are still urging the public to follow safe practices to combat respiratory viruses. Despite a recent decrease in cases, medical experts emphasize the importance of remaining alert and cautious.
Respiratory Virus Cases Reach Peak
Since the beginning of the year, positive cases of respiratory viruses have surged both in San Antonio and across the country, causing concern among healthcare professionals.
According to ABC News, San Antonio experienced elevated levels of respiratory illness, adding to the growing national trend. However, it appears that cases are now starting to decrease in March.
CDC Updates Guidelines for COVID-19 Infections
In a significant change, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently updated its guidance for individuals with mild COVID-19 symptoms. While under the
previous guidelines a five-day isolation period was mandatory, the new guidance allows individuals to return to work and normal activities if their symptoms are mild, improving, and if it has been at least one day since their last fever. This change provides some relief to individuals who may have experienced prolonged isolation.
Remaining Cautious Still Recommended
Tarak Patel, a pediatric pulmonologist at Baptist Children’s Hospital, suggests that despite the updated CDC guidelines, people should remain vigilant. Patel remarks that due to the unusual dynamics of this year’s viral activity, respiratory viruses are seemingly competing with each other concerning their spreading patterns in the community. As one virus surges, another may decline.
Consistent Hygiene Practices are Essential
Jason Bowling, the hospital epidemiologist at University Health, stresses that in times like these, consistent and responsible practices are crucial. Simple yet effective measures like frequent hand washing and staying at home if feeling unwell are still highly effective in preventing the spread of respiratory viruses. Bowling urges the public not to become complacent but to integrate these precautions into their daily routine.
To learn more about the updated guidelines put forth by the CDC, you can
click here.
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