Phoenix (3TV/CBS 5) — If you’ve noticed more people getting sick this holiday season, the Maricopa County Department of Public Health (MCDPH) says you’re not alone.

On Friday, the county health department issued a public health alert as cases of illnesses such as COVID-19, flu and RSV are far higher than normal for this time of year. Health officials are urging communities to get vaccinated against his COVID and flu boosters, which are widely available at pharmacies and drugstores in the Valley. Experts warn that cases may continue to rise as families gather for Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Christmas and New Years.

“Respiratory viruses can cause severe illness, especially in infants, young children and the elderly,” said Dr. Nick Stave, medical epidemiologist at MCDPH. “It’s alarming to see so many cases before so many holiday gatherings and trips have taken place. We’re already straining our healthcare system.”

The flu cases are now considered “widespread,” according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which is the agency’s highest level of viral spread. National health officials have said they are recommending people wear masks indoors while outside. Her RSV, which tends to make children particularly sick, is now more than twice as high as his average peak, according to MCDPH.

Arizona families were the first to report an increase in COVID and flu cases since the summer season began. last week, Arizona family Elliot Pollack reported Arizona is the only state with moderate/high levels of COVID-19 in every county. Eight counties, including highly populated Maricopa County, have high levels of infection.

Hospitalizations are also peaking. “Over the past two and a half weeks, we have been 60% increase in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 illnessDr. Michael White, chief clinical officer of Valleywise Health, told Alexis Dominguez of Arizona’s Family.

With cold weather prevalent, many of the Valley’s healthcare systems are trying to fix the problem. Banner health and dignity health This is necessary to slow the spread of respiratory disease in hospitals, they say.

“Staying up to date on influenza and COVID-19 vaccines is an easy way to prevent infection, reduce the spread of respiratory disease, and prevent serious illness,” said Dr. Staab. “Many places can get the vaccine on the same day. There is still time to get vaccinated before holidays.” It is recommended to secure

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