TRIAD, N.C. - Cone Health reports that the respiratory illness season is officially underway, with flu, RSV, COVID-19, and other viruses spreading throughout the community. New masking and visitor guidelines are now in effect across Cone Health hospitals and care locations as cases continue to climb.
Cone health officials say the goal is simple: reduce the spread of illness within hospitals and protect patients most at risk.
"This is right now the start of the respiratory season. We are starting to see an increase in flu and RSV cases in the community. Just looking at our statistics, we've had about 25 percent of the folks that we test are testing positive for flu," said Medical Directorof Infection Prevention at Cone Health, Dr. Cynthia Snider.
Under the updated policies, children 12 and under are not permitted to visit patients, except in limited circumstances. Anyone who is sick is asked to stay home, and patients and visitors are strongly encouraged to wear masks, especially in waiting areas or when they have symptoms.
"The reason why we keep those in place is really to keep our most vulnerable patients as healthy as can be. Nobody wants to be hospitalized and then have another infection," said Dr.Snider.
Cone health officials say while cold and flu symptoms can overlap, flu symptoms tend to be more sudden and severe, often including high fever and significant body aches, whereas colds are generally milder.
Doctors say those with underlying health conditions face an even higher risk of serious illness this time of year.
"Maybe you are a person that has lung disease and needs oxygen or is more prone to getting more severe illness from flu or covid or any other respiratory illness i think it makes sense to wear a mask when you go out," said Dr. Snider.
Cone Health is also urging people to get vaccinated. Flu shots are available at Cone Health-affiliated pharmacies for anyone 12 and older; younger children should be immunized by their pediatrician. Officials say people at higher risk should also talk to their doctor about antiviral treatments if they start feeling sick.
Local pharmacies also offer rapid COVID-19 and flu combination testing, helping people quickly and accurately determine the type of illness they have.