Influenza Cases Spike in Metro Detroit as Multiple Respiratory Viruses Spread

Doctors across Metro Detroit are seeing increasing numbers of flu and breathing infections. Residents spend more time indoors during the winter months. Both influenza A and B strains move through the region, with some cases triggering asthma and other breathing troubles.

Health officials from six counties confirmed the uptick this week. Washtenaw County residents face high flu activity, with wastewater detection showing plenty of influenza B in Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti.

"We are seeing an increase in flu cases, and even some sporadic COVID cases, so it is in the community," said Dr. Kevin Dazy, according to Click On Detroit. The pediatrician from Children's Hospital of Michigan added that RSV cases should climb in the next month or two.

Influenza B causes stomach troubles in many patients. "Influenza B is frequently causing gastrointestinal symptoms, and slip-and-fall injuries on ice are also common right now," said Dr. Jennifer Stephens-Hoyer from Henry Ford Medical Center Plymouth, as reported by Click On Detroit.

Dr. Christopher Shamass from McLaren Macomb saw a jump in patients testing positive for influenza B after showing nausea, muscle aches, and fatigue. COVID-19 cases are rising too, though most patients have mild symptoms that don't require hospital stays.

"We're seeing multiple influenza strains and other respiratory viruses, often triggering asthma, COPD, or new onset wheezing in adults," said Dr. Stephens-Hoyer, as per Click On Detroit.

Medical professionals see stomach viruses alongside breathing illnesses. Dr. Brad Uren from Michigan Medicine said some cases tested positive for norovirus. Dr. Evelyn Laskowski from Corewell Health Children's in Royal Oak noted lots of gastroenteritis with vomiting and diarrhea.

Winter weather adds to emergency room visits. Slip-and-fall injuries on ice send patients to hospitals with head, wrist, arm, and hip injuries. Cold exposure cases show up at medical centers too.

Physicians urge residents to get vaccinated if they haven't done so. Flu shots remain available for people ages six months and older. Hand-washing and masking when sick can help slow infections from spreading.

One confirmed measles case in Oakland County has prompted doctors to remind families about keeping children on appropriate vaccine schedules.