20% of ER Visits in Wisconsin Tied to Respiratory Illnesses, Health Officials Report

As the New Year approaches, Wisconsin health leaders are grappling with a significant rise in respiratory illnesses across the state, particularly in the Northeastern region.

According to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services DHS 20% of emergency department visits for the week ending Dec. 21 involved diagnoses of respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus RSV.

Dr. Austin Greenwood, a family medicine physician with Bellin Health, noted, “We’re seeing a variety of viruses circulating, which is typical this time of year but concerning given the increased severity in some cases.”

Masking Measures and Precautions

In response to the surge, Aurora Health Care will reinstate masking requirements starting Jan. 6. Visitors at all Aurora locations will need to wear masks when interacting with patients or in communal areas.

While Bellin and Gundersen Health System have not yet reintroduced masking mandates, they acknowledge the uptick in cases and urge caution.

Dr. Greenwood highlighted RSV as a particular concern for children under two, stating, “If your little one seems more unwell than with a typical cold, testing can help us provide timely care and potentially prevent hospitalization.”

Hospital Visitor Guidelines

The Hospital Sisters Health System HSHS, which operates facilities in Wisconsin and Illinois, has implemented visitor restrictions to curb the spread of illnesses. Visitors showing cold or flu symptoms are advised to stay away, and no more than two visitors are allowed per patient at any time.

Health leaders continue to emphasize vigilance as the respiratory illness season intensifies, urging the public to adhere to health guidelines, seek care when symptoms worsen, and stay informed about local healthcare policies.

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