'Dramatic' Surge In Childhood Respiratory Diseases In DuPage County

DUPAGE COUNTY, IL — DuPage County Health Department (DCHD) officials say there has been such a "dramatic" increase in childhood respiratory diseases that there are days when no beds are open for children in hospitals throughout the county. Hospital staff is being "stretched and strained," according to an update shared by DCHD Tuesday.

These diseases include respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), coronavirus and the flu.

As a result, health department officials are encouraging residents take the following steps to help prevent illness:

• Stay updated with vaccines
• Do not leave home if you're ill
• Wear a mask if you must be around other people
• Wash hands often with soap and water
• Use hand sanitizer
• Open windows and improve air filtration in your home
• Use HEPA filters

Karen Ayala, Executive Director of DCHD, told Patch, “Both nationally and in DuPage County, we are seeing a rise in respiratory viruses such as flu, COVID-19, and RSV. This is concerning both for the health of our most vulnerable residents, such as young children, older adults, and for people with underlying conditions."

She added, "Protect yourself and your family this winter by getting vaccinated against the flu and staying up to date with COVID-19 vaccines and boosters. If you do get sick, please contact your medical provider, and stay home. We are in this together, and we have learned over the past several years that we have a responsibility and an opportunity to protect each other.”

In October, bivalent coronavirus booster vaccines were made available for children between the ages of five and 11 in DuPage County.