In his weekly update, County Executive Marc Elrich said that a potential “tri-demic” may occur sometime this winter. A tri-demic, as dubbed by health experts, is the result of a surge of COVID-19, influenza and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) rates.
As of this week, county COVID-19 rates and hospitalizations are low, and vaccinations and booster rates are above national average. However, there is still a level of concern as cases rise nation and worldwide.
“Flu-like symptoms have already been driving up visits to doctors’ offices and hospitals nationwide. In some areas of the country, the situation is alarming. Children’s Hospital in the District is among several area facilities for kids that are at or near capacity because of these respiratory illnesses” Stated Elrich. “I am concerned for the upcoming winter. There is already a surge happening in Europe. And when Europe surges we are never far behind. Wastewater detection surveillance is starting to see upticks in cases nearby in Pennsylvania. We must be deliberate in our efforts to protect ourselves and our families. We must keep severe cases at a minimum and our hospitalization rate in this County as low as possible” he added.
