Avoiding the “Tripledemic” of Respiratory Diseases.

As we move into the fall and winter season of respiratory diseases our hopes are higher than ever. We say, “I made it through last year, so I will just do more of the same this year” and recently the CDC has been telling us we should anticipate something similar to last year. So, what does that really mean? To give the basics, we are dealing with regular COVID-19 shots targeting the current circulating strain, the influenza vaccine targeting several different strains, and now RSV (respiratory syncytial virus).

According to the experts, flu and RSV infections are going to increase over the fall and winter seasons. So, what does this mean? Do we need to go back to the restrictions of masks and diligently monitor ourselves, and our social events and test profusely until we get a solid negative or positive? And what about those negatives that could be positive results? Even worse what happens if we get one after another or all three at once? To begin with what is circulating now, given my throat has been sore for a few days.

Officials are urging those Americans who are eligible to take all three shots to avoid another “Tripledemic.”  Some experts say there is no issue with taking all three shots at once. You can have the updated Covid shot and flu vaccine at the same time, which is safe and effective as we saw last year.  Still, there is little data on the effectiveness of the RSV shot with another vaccine or on giving all of these together. So, the choice is left up to us. We get to make the decision with the belief these vaccines are readily available - which just is not true. Appointments are being canceled due to the lack of vaccines. And then of course we need to think through what symptoms might arise, does that mean we have to prepare to take a day or two or three off of work? And again, when and where can I get my vaccines?

Reach out to us if you think you have been exposed to someone who is positive for any of these diseases. We can provide the testing for you or a home health visit at info@diagenta.com