Here’s our weekly round-up of what illnesses are spreading the most in Metro Detroit communities, according to our local doctors and hospitals.
Wayne County – Breathing problems, asthma flare-ups, influenza, bronchiolitis, COVID, stomach viruses
Dr. Kevin Dazy -- Pediatrician at Children’s Hospital of Michigan
“We are still seeing a lot of flu again. Flu was on a downward trend but we’ve seen a resurgence of flu. And in general, we are seeing an increase in seasonal respiratory problems, some bad asthma, some babies with bronchiolitis, or coughing and congestion in the small airways. We’re not seeing RSV, but we’re seeing viruses cause that same type of illness.”
Dr. Mohamed Siddique -- Director of Internal Medicine at DMC Sinai-Grace Hospital
“Right now we’re not seeing any major illness problem. COVID has plateaued. Even the flu cases: in the month of February, we had a significant increase in influenza, but that has decreased because of the weather and we are at the tail end of the flu season. Also, we’re seeing the common medical conditions of heart failure, COPD and uncontrolled diabetes. Unfortunately, some of those patients are coming back in after losing insurance due to job loss or other situations, after not taking their medicines or taking care of themselves for a while. Often their symptoms are worse, so we work with them to improve their health.”
Dr. Zafar Shamoon -- Emergency Center Chief, Corewell Health Dearborn Hospital
“We are on high alert for any potential measles cases. We are still seeing patients struggling with gastrointestinal viruses and also, children with injuries related to outdoor play. Good time to encourage parents to have their children wear helmets.”
Oakland County – Spring allergies, asthma and COPD flare-ups, COVID, influenza
Dr. Steve McGraw -- Director of Emergency Medicine, Ascension Providence Southfield and Novi
“I’m still seeing the usual springtime illnesses including asthma and COPD flare ups. Patients continue to come in with COVID-19; but, the numbers are much better than a month ago. I’m seeing a similar drop in frequency in cases of patients with Influenza. This is just a reminder to the community, as kids are riding bikes please make sure to slow down around school routes and neighborhood streets. Also, if you’re 65 or older, consider getting the new Covid booster available at most pharmacies for the new variants.”
Dr. Justin Skrzynski -- Internal medicine physician, Corewell Health William Beaumont University Hospital in Royal Oak
“Cases of respiratory viruses like influenza and COVID are thankfully dropping off, and hopefully, the warmer weather helps keep people out of the hospital. Taking some walks outside is one of the best and most accessible ways to get moving and shake off the winter!”
Washtenaw County – Spring allergies, asthma flare-ups, respiratory viruses, influenza
Washtenaw County Health Department
“Influenza cases in Washtenaw County residents are currently at high levels. Most Influenza cases being reported in Washtenaw County are Influenza A, types A(H1N1) and A(H3). Sporadic cases of Influenza B are being reported. Influenza-related deaths in Washtenaw County adults have been reported this flu season. All individuals were older adults with confirmed Influenza A infection. Flu-related hospitalizations of Washtenaw residents are currently at high levels.”
Monroe County – Upper respiratory viruses, pneumonia, spring allergies, asthma flare-ups
Dr. Spencer Johnson -- ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital – Emergency Center
“We are currently seeing viral upper respiratory infections and pneumonia at pretty steady doses, along with exacerbation of chronic conditions. Trauma has also been picking up.”
Macomb County – Spring allergies, asthma flare-ups, stomach viruses, influenza, COVID, strep throat
Dr. Emily Orille -- Emergency Physician at McLaren Macomb
“Cases of viral gastroenteritis have been ticking up, causing symptoms of nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, mainly affecting pediatric patients. Patients continue to test positive to for influenza after experiencing symptoms of fever, cough, and body aches, though the majority are treated in the ER and discharged, avoiding hospitalization. Spring allergies are beginning to cause complications for asthma sufferers, sending them to the ER with breathing complications.”
Dr. Maria Samuel -- Primary Care Physician, Henry Ford Medical Center Sterling Heights
“We are seeing Influenza A and B again this week, along with some COVID-19 and strep cases.”