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 – Influenza, RSV, frostbite, weather-related injuries, COVID, stomach viruses
Dr. Kevin Dazy -- Pediatrician, Children’s Hospital of Michigan
“We’re still seeing a lot of flu. The flu is bad this year. We’re seeing a lot of complications, such as myositis, which is muscle inflammation that can cause aches and cramps. Kids will say, “My legs ache.”
But some of these kids, too much muscle breakdown can affect organs like your kidneys, which get injured from the excess muscle proteins.
It’s only in the most severe cases, and it’s almost always reversible, but we do see it.
You need to keep those kids hydrated to keep the kidneys as happy as possible.
Always stay hydrated when you are sick; that’s the one thing you can do to protect your kidneys.
We are also still seeing a lot of RSV infections, especially in babies, leading to respiratory problems.
Regarding the cold, it’s a reminder that frostbite can set in with kids very quickly, less than 30 minutes to exposed skin.
So you need to cover exposed skin and limit outside time.
The younger the child, the less outside time, number one. In babies, none to a few minutes, older kids, half an hour or less.
Check with the American Academy of Pediatrics for specific recommendations.”
Dr. Ayed Mahmoud -- Trinity Health Livonia Emergency Medicine Physician
“Over the past week at Trinity Health Livonia, we have noticed a significant drop in outdoor temperatures, putting people at increased risk of hypothermia, which can lead to serious complications such as confusion, heart rhythm problems, and even organ failure.
Please check on family members, neighbors, and loved ones who may be vulnerable.
Be cautious of frostbite, which can cause permanent tissue damage and limit time outdoors in extreme cold.
Dress in warm layers, cover exposed skin, and keep hands and feet dry. In addition, upper respiratory infections are on the rise, and the flu and COVID continue to be common in the community.
To reduce risk, practice good hand hygiene, wear masks in crowded or indoor settings when appropriate, stay home if you’re sick, and keep vaccinations up to date.
Staying proactive and taking these precautions can help keep everyone safe during this colder period.”
Dr. Marcus Moore -- Chief of Emergency Medicine, DMC Detroit Receiving Hospital
“We have had a reduction in influenza cases and are seeing about one-third of the number of Influenza A cases per week at DMC Detroit Receiving Hospital compared to four weeks ago.
But we are cautiously waiting for the Influenza B surge similar to Australia’s pattern, which we follow annually.
This week has been heavy with frostbite cases and other cold-weather injuries.
Please keep warm going into the next couple of days, in particular, as the temperature drops.”
Dr. Glen Clark -- Emergency Center Chief, Corewell Health Beaumont Grosse Pointe Hospital
“We have seen very high volumes of influenza (both A and B). COVID numbers have increased, but not nearly to the extent of the flu. Also, we are seeing an increase in viral gastroenteritis (stomach flu).”
Dr. Ali J. Bazzi -- Pediatrician, Corewell Health Dearborn Hospital
“We are continuing to see a surge of flu-related conditions, including upper respiratory infections, GI illnesses, and rhabdomyolysis. There has also been a rise in COVID cases and stomach bugs.”
OAKLAND COUNTY— Influenza, COVID, stomach viruses, weather-related injuries
Dr. Rena Daiza -- Primary Care Physician, Henry Ford Medical Center Bloomfield Twp.
“We’re continuing to see a steady number of upper respiratory infections typical for this time of year, with flu activity present and being closely monitored.
Prevention remains key. Vaccination, good hand hygiene, and staying home when sick.
With the recent cold weather, we’re also reminding patients to watch for signs of hypothermia, such as shivering, confusion, and slurred speech, and to avoid rapid rewarming with very hot showers or water.
Gradual warming and prompt medical attention when symptoms are concerning are safest.”
Dr. Steve McGraw -- Emergency Department, Henry Ford Providence Southfield/Novi
“Flu and Covid are still high, but now we’re also seeing a bit of viral gastroenteritis, 3-4 days of vomiting and diarrhea.
The cold is a big risk to those finding themselves outside unexpectedly. Make sure folks consider traveling with extra dry clothes, hats, boots, and blankets.
Be prepared with a cell phone fully charged and plan to request help if stranded.
Treat cold injuries with 100F water - not very hot at all, but safely rewarms tissues in 20-30 minutes.
Seek ER for waxy, hard or insensate (numb) fingers, toes noses or ears.”
Dr. Josh Newblatt -- Pine Knob Urgent Care in Clarkston
“Still seeing a lot of influenza, both A and B.
Some COVID, but not to the level of influenza, and not as symptomatic as flu seems to be.
A lot of the GI virus (norovirus) seen weeks ago seems to have settled a bit. With recent cold weather and increased snow, we have had a pick up of cold-related injuries and illnesses.”
WASHTENAW COUNTY – Upper respiratory infections, influenza, RSV, COVID, asthma flare-ups, pneumonia, stomach viruses
Dr. Stuart Bradin -- Clinical Professor of Emergency Medicine and Pediatrics, Michigan Medicine
“Many cases of influenza and RSV. There are an increasing number of patients with COVID, asthma flares, and pneumonia.
We have also seen some cases of croup. The college kids have been presenting with flu, COVID, and other respiratory illnesses. We have also seen several cases of GI illness—belly pain, vomiting, and diarrhea with secondary dehydration.”
Dr. Brad Uren -- Clinical Associate Professor of Emergency Medicine, Michigan Medicine
“The adult side is seeing a lot of upper respiratory infections, including influenza. There has been a small increase in GI illness this week as well.”
Washtenaw County Health Department
“Influenza cases in Washtenaw County residents are currently at high levels. Influenza A and B wastewater detection is currently at high levels in both Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti.
According to the most recent MDHHS MI Flu Focus report, Influenza A H3N2 is currently dominating the 2025-2026 influenza season.
Influenza-related deaths in Washtenaw County adults have been reported this flu season. All individuals were confirmed with Influenza A.”
MONROE COUNTY – Influenza, Covid, weather-related injuries
ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital – Emergency Center
“We have seen an increase in Flu B and COVID cases, particularly among very young children and older adults.
We recommend staying hydrated, staying home when you’re not feeling well, and practicing good hand hygiene.
With the continued cold and icy weather, we are also seeing more falls resulting in broken bones and other musculoskeletal injuries.
Wear shoes or boots with good traction, take small, careful steps, use handrails when available, and keep walkways salted and clear.
Give yourself extra time to get where you’re going and avoid carrying heavy items that may throw off your balance.”
MACOMB COUNTY – Influenza, RSV, pneumonia, weather-related injuries
Craig Keinath -- Emergency Physician Assistant at McLaren Macomb
“Cases of influenza A and B continue to be diagnosed in significantly high volumes, with the majority of patients experiencing fever, cough, muscle aches, and fatigue, with flu B adding gastrointestinal distress.
Mostly diagnosed in pediatric patients, cases of RSV have increased, with symptoms of fever, cough, and congestion, with severe cases causing breathing complications.
Diagnosed in significant volumes for the first time this season, patients ultimately diagnosed with pneumonia have experienced symptoms of a cough producing phlegm, fever, and shortness of breath.
Extreme winter conditions continue to send patients to the emergency and trauma center with minor injuries sustained in slips and falls.”