Cases of COVID-19, influenza, and RSV are on the rise in Maine – NewsCenterMaine.com WCSH-WLBZ

PORTLAND, Maine As the winter season progresses, many individuals find themselves grappling with colds and persistent coughs.

However, this year, hospitals in Maine are reporting an increase in cases of COVID-19, influenza (Flu), and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), with the peak still to come.

Maine Medical Center noted a higher number of COVID cases in both inpatient and outpatient settings, reporting an influx of 25 to 50 COVID patients a day.

Northern Light Mercy Hospital reported more influenza cases than anything else and only 12 to 15 COVID cases a day.

Dr. James Jarvis, medical director at Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center, emphasized that COVID was causing the most severe illnesses.

"Right now, hospitalizations are much higher than they have been since December for all three categories," Jarvis said of COVID, RSV, and influenza.

Maine CDCDirector Puthiery Va said monitoring wastewater can provide additional insights into COVID activity, especially when people may not be testing at home or testing at all.

"We can pick up on COVID activity in the wastewater. The US CDC does follow this as well. If we see more people going to the emergency room, it's safe to assume there is high COVID activity," Va said.

While Maine hospitals are currently not mandating masks, the Maine CDC encourages people to wear masks in public places, particularly in facilities like nursing homes where the most vulnerable population resides.

For the latest breaking news, weather, and traffic alerts, download the NEWS CENTER Maine mobile app.

See the original post:

Cases of COVID-19, influenza, and RSV are on the rise in Maine - NewsCenterMaine.com WCSH-WLBZ