Here’s our weekly round-up of what illnesses are spreading the most in Metro Detroit communities, according to our local doctors and hospitals.
WAYNE COUNTY – Burns from fireworks & grilling, dehydration, fungal rashes, swimmer’s ear, stomach viruses, asthma flare-ups.
Dr. Ayed Mahmoud -- Trinity Health Livonia Emergency Medicine Physician
“Our emergency department has seen a surge in summer-related injuries over the past week. With July 4th around the corner, we’ve treated multiple burn cases related to fireworks and grilling. These injuries are preventable: handle fireworks responsibly, keep children at a safe distance, and never leave flames unattended. Additionally, please keep in mind that we’re still experiencing a heat wave — stay hydrated, and be sure to take breaks in the shade if you are working outdoors.”
Dr. Asha Shajahan -- Primary Care Physician, Corewell Health Beaumont Grosse Pointe Hospital
“We are seeing a rise in dehydration and heat-related fungal rashes, particularly during prolonged outdoor activities in the summer sun. Additionally, family barbeques and rich seasonal foods are contributing to an uptick in acid reflux symptoms. Stay hydrated, dress in breathable clothing, and be mindful of heavy or spicy meals that may trigger discomfort.”
Dr. Arsala Bakhtyar -- Medical Director, Pediatric Hospital Medicine, Corewell Health in Southeast Michigan (based in Dearborn)
“In clinic, we’ve recently treated a few otitis externa cases, commonly known as swimmer’s ear, as well as some GI bugs (mostly diarrhea). While the respiratory viruses are dwindling down, like it usually does in the summer, we are still seeing several asthma exacerbations from pollen and the changing weather.
OAKLAND COUNTY— Pink eye, summer viruses, viral coughs, stomach viruses, Covid.
Dr. Susan Bork -- Director of Operations, Emergency Center, William Beaumont University Hospital in Royal Oak
“We are seeing very low rates of Covid, influenza and RSV, but an emergence of other summer viruses causing upper respiratory symptoms and pink eye. With July 4th celebrations starting, we are prepared to handle emergencies related to heat illness, injuries related to fireworks and injuries related to children with sparklers. Just a reminder to be safe and smart with home fireworks—accidents happen fast, so take the right precautions.”
Dr. Rena Daiza -- Primary Care Physician, Henry Ford Medical Center Bloomfield Twp.
“We’re seeing an uptick in viral illnesses with coughs this week, likely driven by summer gatherings, increased travel, and shared indoor spaces with air conditioning, all of which can make it easier for germs to spread. Some viruses also tend to peak during warmer months. To help protect yourself and others, remember to wash your hands frequently, avoid close contact with those who are sick, stay hydrated, and keep indoor areas well ventilated.”
WASHTENAW COUNTY – Hand foot & mouth disease, outdoor injuries, respiratory viruses, croup, asthma flare-ups, heat-related illnesses.
MONROE COUNTY – Dehydration, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, sunburn, insect bites, water sports injuries, summer colds.
ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital – Emergency Center
“As temperatures have been on the rise this summer, we have seen an increase in dehydration, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, sunburns, insect bites, and water sport injuries across all age groups. To stay safe during outdoor activities this summer, we recommend staying hydrated, wear sunscreen and insect repellent, dress appropriately, and remain indoors with air conditioning during extreme heat.”
Dr. Nicholas Schenk -- ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital Family Medicine Residency
“We’re seeing a slight uptick in summer colds, mostly affecting children but some adults as well. Symptoms have been mild – mainly runny nose, cough, and congestion, with few fevers. When testing, Rhinovirus shows up as the primary cause. With the temperatures rising and more people staying indoors, it’s important to make sure you are practicing good hand hygiene.”
MACOMB COUNTY – Hand foot & mouth disease, outdoor injuries, summer allergies, asthma flare-ups, stomach viruses.
Dr. Evan Coyne -- Emergency Physician at McLaren Macomb
“A trend expected to continue throughout the summer, orthopedic and soft tissue injuries resulting mainly from outdoor mishaps continue to be the most common reason patients are seeking care in the emergency department. Environmental allergens continue to cause various complications, the most severe affecting asthma sufferers and leading to breathing complications. After weeks of noticeable volumes of gastrointestinal distress, those cases have significantly dropped off.”
Dr. Solomon Knicely -- Emergency Department, Henry Ford Medical Center Sterling Heights
“As more people make their way outdoors to enjoy the nicer weather, we’re seeing a number of minor traumas. For this time of year, there is an unusual amount of hand, foot and mouth disease popping up mostly in children.”