The number of respiratory illnesses has surged in many US states.

This map shows the risk levels for respiratory illnesses in the US, with dark red indicating the highest risk.

The New York Post reported on December 13th that New York City (New York State, USA) is one of the hotspots recording an increase in respiratory illnesses this month, while authorities warn of rising cases nationwide.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) had previously warned of a 30% increase in COVID-19 hospitalizations, with the highest rates among elderly patients and children.

Covid-19 is just one of several respiratory illnesses spreading in New York, as well as in most southern and southwestern states, along with California. These hotspots concentrate many cases of Covid-19, RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), and seasonal influenza.

The states of Georgia and South Carolina have the highest rates of these diseases.

"All we're hearing about isn't any new virus or pathogen, but rather common seasonal illnesses that will likely appear together," ABC quoted Dr. Philip Huang, director of the Dallas County Department of Health and Human Services, as saying.

"The preventive measures are all the same: if you're sick, stay home, wash your hands, cough into your sleeve, don't rub your eyes, nose, or mouth, and keep up-to-date with your vaccination schedule," this doctor advised.

What is the spreading white lung syndrome?

The number of patients hospitalized in the US due to the flu also increased, with a total of 5,753 cases nationwide in the last week of November and the first week of December. Hospitals in Washington state advised people to wear masks indoors to prevent the illness.

In October, Dr. Kristin Englund at the Cleveland Clinic predicted an increase in respiratory illnesses, emphasizing that the best way to protect yourself is to stay home when sick, wash your hands, and wash frequently touched items.

She emphasized the importance of staying updated on vaccines, especially the Covid-19 vaccine, as SARS-CoV-2 continues to mutate. The CDC is currently monitoring the Omicron subvariant JN.1, which accounts for about one-fifth of infections in the US.

Covid-19 cases surge in Malaysia

In other news, The Straits Times reported that the number of Covid-19 cases in Malaysia rose to 6,796 in the week of November 26-December 2, compared with 3,626 the previous week.

Malaysian Health Ministry official Muhammad Radzi Abu Hassan said the rate of Covid-19 hospitalizations, including suspected cases, is 3.5 per 100,000 people.

According to him, 72.9% of the concerning variants detected were Omicron, while Delta accounted for 26.2%, and the remainder were Beta and Alpha variants.

"To date, no new variants have been detected in Malaysia, and there is no indication that locally transmitted variants are more infectious or cause more severe illness," he said.

The official emphasized that despite the increase in Covid-19 cases, the situation in Malaysia remains under control and is not putting pressure on healthcare facilities.

"An increase in cases has been recorded globally. The Ministry of Health will continue to monitor the situation and its variations, and prepare for all possible scenarios," he said.

COVID-19 patients, especially those in high-risk groups, are advised to seek medical attention promptly if their symptoms worsen.

People with symptoms should rest at home and avoid crowded places. People with symptoms and high-risk groups should wear masks if they must go to public places.

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