The United States is experiencing a ‘quad-demic’

The US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention has expressed concerns over the simultaneous circulation of four different viruses in the United States, which are placing pressure on the country’s healthcare system. This phenomenon has been termed a ‘quad-demic’, a term that describes a ‘quadruple epidemic’, to indicate the influenza A viruses (the type that commonly circulates in the winter), the ongoing circulation of the virus that causes the disease known as COVID-19, the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and the noroviruses, resulting in gastrointestinal problems. According to data reported by ABC News, in recent weeks, almost 20% of flu tests have been positive, as well as 11.6% of tests for respiratory syncytial virus and 6.9% of tests for CoV. Of particular concern are the data relating to norovirus, with a positivity rate of almost 28%. Dr. Scott Roberts, medical director of infection prevention at Yale New Haven Health, emphasised the combined activity levels of the four viruses, which could potentially reach a level high enough to require emergency room visits. According to experts, the peak may not have been reached yet, but a general decrease in cases should be seen in the coming days. As a preventative measure, the use of masks, thorough hand washing, and avoiding exposure to people infected with one of these diseases are recommended. The use of masks with a limitation of visits is becoming mandatory in many American hospitals.