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The tent is set up outside the hospital’s emergency room to hold patients awaiting testing or treatment.
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that the level of respiratory illness in Indiana is high.
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Levels for Norovirus, or stomach flu, in particular are at an all-time high.
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It is possible to get COVID, RSV and the flu at the same time, also known as the ‘trifecta.’
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Infants and older adults are at risk of developing severe symptoms and needing hospitalization.
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A surge of three viruses (RSV, COVID and the flu) following Thanksgiving gatherings leaves hospitals struggling to accommodate for more patients.
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Data from the Indiana Department of Health suggests this is the earliest start to high flu-like illnesses in the state since at least 2011.
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Pre-mature infants and babies with congenital heart disease or chronic lung disease are at the most risk, along with some older adults.
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In a statement issued earlier this week, the Indiana Hospital Association said pediatric beds were more than 70 percent occupied across the five largest hospitals specializing in care for children.
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Public health officials are contending with a complacent public when it comes to controlling COVID. Throw in the flu and RSV, and that could mean a more disruptive – even dangerous -- winter season for everyone.