Van Buren Cass District Health Department Medical Director Larry Wile is asking everyone to use common sense to avoid illness this Christmas and New Year’s. He tells us with RSV, the flu, and COVID, area hospitals are busy.
“ERs have been busy, and big hospitals that support our two counties, in Kalamazoo, St. Joseph, Indiana, they’re also busy,” Wile said. “Not only their ERs, but also admissions.”
Wile says those who are traveling should take steps to protect themselves and others.
“We’ve got people wanting to get together to see loved ones and family, and they’re traveling. They may travel with a little sniffles because this is the only opportunity to see loved ones, over holiday break. So, make sure you keep your distance, wash your hands, wear a mask if you’re having symptoms.”
And if you see someone who is sick, stay away from them. Wile says the three illnesses are all similar in symptoms, and although there are medications to alleviate them, that won’t reduce the time you’re contagious if you get sick.
