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 – Seasonal allergies, asthma flare-ups, viral illnesses, tick bites, strep throat, colds
Dr. Jaime Hope -- Medical director, Emergency Medicine, Beaumont Outpatient Campus – Livonia, a part of Corewell Health
“A milder virus is going around, causing either cold symptoms or GI upset. We are starting to see flu and COVID swabs come back negative for many patients. Additionally, lots of spring allergies are in the air. Use caution outside, wash up, and change clothes to avoid bringing allergens inside your home with you. It’s a good idea to use gloves and caution with gardening equipment. NEVER touch a lawnmower or power equipment that is on! Lastly, we are seeing tick bites already due to the earlier-than-usual warmth. Use appropriate bug and tick-repellent spray, and after spending any time outdoors, even in your backyard, do a thorough check for ticks. People often don’t feel them, even when latched on, so they can be easy to miss. Remember flea and tick prevention for pets too!”
Dr. Kelly Levasseur -- Medical Director of Pediatric Emergency Medicine at Children’s Hospital of Michigan
“We’re seeing lots of viral illness with vomiting, where dehydration is a concern. We’re also still seeing many kids with strep throat, along with still some cases of kids with regular cough/colds. Thankfully, we’re not seeing much flu or RSV anymore.”
Dr. Kevin Dazy -- Pediatrician with Children’s Hospital of Michigan
“With the Springtime weather and pollination season commencing, we’re seeing a good amount of asthma flare-ups, which is typical for this time of year. Patients need to work with their doctor to have a plan to keep asthma under control.”
Oakland County – Seasonal allergies, asthma & COPD flare-ups, stomach viruses, sore throats, sinus issues, influenza
Dr. Steve McGraw -- Director of Emergency Medicine, Ascension Providence Hospital, Southfield and Novi Campuses
“I am seeing a lot of patients with asthma/COPD due to allergens like tree and grass pollen. We’re seeing patients with viral gastroenteritis and viral pharyngitis. We’re finally seeing less cases of Influenza A and B. We’re seeing a lot of motor vehicle accidents. This is a reminder for everyone to slow down and watch out for each other.”
Dr. Parag Patel -- Primary Care Physician, Corewell Health’s Beaumont Hospital Troy
“While the last few months were extremely busy with flu and COVID, in terms of infectious disease, we are experiencing a bit of reprieve. Influenza is still out there, but in decreasing volume. We are seeing a lot of allergies and sinus issues, including sinus infections.”
Emergency Department at Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital
“Abdominal pain, chest pain and respiratory issues are still the highest in our emergency department. “
Washtenaw County – Seasonal allergies, COPD & asthma flare-ups, stomach viruses, upper respiratory infections, Covid, influenza
Dr. Brad Uren -- Clinical Associate Professor of Emergency Medicine, Michigan Medicine
“Much less URIs, covid, and flu this week. A little bit of GI illness still in circulation on the adult side. Recent high pollen counts have continued to cause problems for people that are susceptible such as those with COPD, asthma, etc.”
Washtenaw County Health Department
“Influenza cases in Washtenaw County residents are currently at high levels, but appear to be decreasing. 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, but appear to be decreasing.”
Monroe County – Influenza, Covid, viral illnesses, seasonal allergies, breathing problems
ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital – Emergency Center
“We are continuing to see an increase in influenza A, COVID-19, and viral illnesses.”
Macomb County – Strep throat, seasonal allergies, sinus problems, asthma flare-ups, upper respiratory viruses, stomach viruses
Dr. Ali Saad -- Emergency physician at McLaren Macomb
“Consistent good weather and increased outdoor activities has led to a significant increase in minor orthopedic and soft tissue injuries. Weather has also increased allergies in the air and led to complications for asthma sufferers, with severe cases causing breathing difficulties. Though late in the traditional season, there are still a noticeable number of patients experiencing the symptoms of a viral upper respiratory infection, such as cough, congestion, runny nose, and slight fever. Also late in the season, some patients are still infected with a viral gastroenteritis, causing symptoms of nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.”