COVID Cases Are Climbing Again and Doctors Are Seeing Different Symptoms
If it feels like more people have been getting sick around you, you may not be imagining it.
COVID Cases Are Climbing Again
Doctors have reported an increase in COVID-19 cases across the country as summer winds down, and some of the symptoms showing up this time look a little different from what many people may remember.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says COVID activity has been climbing during the summer, with the back-to-school season adding to that increase. Overall, respiratory illness is still considered low.
What Symptoms Are Doctors Seeing?
Doctors say the usual symptoms are still showing up, including fever, coughing, and other upper respiratory issues. However, some patients are also coming in with stomach-related symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In some cases, those symptoms have been severe enough to cause mild dehydration.
Dr. James Black, medical director of emergency services at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital in Georgia, says it is still too early to know what exactly is behind the change or whether a new variant is responsible.
How to Manage COVID Symptoms at Home
For most people, symptoms can still be managed at home. Doctors recommend treating fever and body aches with medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, while also making sure you are getting enough fluids and nutrition.
When Should You Seek Emergency Care?
The usual precautions still apply, too. Wash your hands frequently, cover coughs and sneezes, and avoid sending kids back to school while they are still running a fever.
A good rule of thumb is to wait until someone has been fever-free for at least 24 hours.
Doctors say emergency care may be necessary if someone develops extreme shortness of breath or is unable to keep fluids down.
Michigan's Suggested Remedies for Flu and COVID Symptoms
Gallery Credit: Lisha B
