PHOENIX (AP) – Arizona’s most populous county warns of a significant increase in cases of flu, COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses.

The Maricopa County Public Health Department issued an alert Friday that cases of these viruses, including the respiratory syncytial virus known as RSV, are higher than normal for this time of year.

Influenza is now classified as “widespread” within the county.

The infection of COVID-19 also belongs to the high category.

Officials are pushing for anyone over the age of 6 months to be vaccinated against flu and COVID-19, especially during the holiday season when more people will be flocking.

They also encourage indoor mask wearing in public places.

Dr. Nick Stave, the department’s medical epidemiologist, said his concern is how many cases there will be.

These cases occur when people start traveling at Christmas.

He says the medical system is strained.

Symptoms of the three viruses include fever, cough, sore throat, and runny or stuffy nose.