Current Levels of COVID-19, Flu, RSV, and Other Seasonal Diseases: Doctors’ Insights and Recommendations

As of early 2025, the United States is experiencing significant activity in various respiratory illnesses, including influenza (flu), COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and norovirus. Healthcare professionals are closely monitoring these trends and providing guidance to mitigate the spread and impact of these diseases. With ongoing seasonal COVID surges, rapid tests are a vital tool to protect your family and loved ones with. Be sure to stock your medicine cabinet with market-leading ASSURE-100 rapid tests this season.

Influenza (Flu)

The current flu season is notably severe, with the U.S. experiencing its most intense flu activity in at least 15 years. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that seasonal influenza activity remains elevated and continues to increase across the country. cdc.gov

Doctors’ Recommendations:

• Vaccination: Annual flu vaccination is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older. Despite the severity of the season, vaccination rates are lower among children this year. apnews.com

• Preventive Measures: Practicing good hygiene, such as regular handwashing and avoiding close contact with sick individuals, can help prevent the spread of the flu.

COVID-19

COVID-19 activity remains elevated in many areas of the country. The CDC continues to monitor the situation and provides updates on case numbers and hospitalizations. cdc.gov

Doctors’ Recommendations:

• Vaccination: Staying up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations, including boosters, is crucial. The updated 2024–2025 COVID-19 vaccine is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older. ama-assn.org

• Testing: Utilizing rapid home tests can help identify infections early, allowing for timely isolation and treatment.

• Isolation: If symptoms develop, it’s important to stay home and get tested within 48 hours of symptom onset. uchicagomedicine.org

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

RSV activity is declining in most areas of the country. However, it remains a concern, especially for young children and older adults. cdc.gov

Doctors’ Recommendations:

• Vaccination: RSV vaccines are now available for older adults and pregnant individuals to protect newborns. Consult with a healthcare provider to determine eligibility. ama-assn.org

• Preventive Measures: Similar to other respiratory viruses, practicing good hygiene and avoiding close contact with sick individuals can reduce the risk of RSV infection.

Norovirus

Norovirus cases have been unusually high this winter. This highly contagious virus causes gastrointestinal illness and can spread rapidly, especially in close quarters. reuters.com

Doctors’ Recommendations:

• Hygiene: Regular handwashing with soap and water is essential, as hand sanitizers are less effective against norovirus.

• Food Handling: Proper food handling and preparation can prevent outbreaks.

• Isolation: If symptoms occur, stay home to prevent spreading the virus to others.

General Preventive Measures

Healthcare professionals emphasize the following strategies to protect against respiratory illnesses:

• Vaccination: Stay current with all recommended vaccines, including those for flu, COVID-19, and RSV.

• Hand Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly and regularly.

• Masking: Consider wearing masks in crowded or high-risk settings.

• Stay Informed: Keep up to date with local health advisories and guidelines.

By adhering to these recommendations, individuals can help reduce the spread of these illnesses and protect both personal and public health. With ongoing seasonal COVID surges, rapid tests are a vital tool to protect your family and loved ones with. Be sure to stock your medicine cabinet with market-leading ASSURE-100 rapid tests this season.

Keywords: COVID-19, flu, RSV, seasonal diseases, rapid testing, rapid home tests, SARS-CoV-2, preventive measures