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 – Scarlet fever, influenza, upper respiratory infections, stomach viruses, seasonal allergies
Dr. Daniel Taylor -- Chief of Emergency Medicine, DMC Sinai-Grace Hospital
“Flu cases are finally decreasing. We’d also like to share a reminder to be on the lookout for motorcycles when you are driving as we head into better weather. Also, helmets are always a good idea.”
Dr. Tiffney Widner -- Pediatrician, Children’s Hospital of Michigan
“We’ve seen cases of scarlet fever recently, flu, upper respiratory infections, and gastroenteritis. Allergies are also prevalent with the changing of seasons.”
Oakland County – Viral illnesses, stomach viruses, influenza, seasonal allergies, asthma flare-ups
Dr. Jim Getsinger -- Emergency Center physician, William Beaumont University Hospital in Royal Oak
“Flu season is almost over. We have a few lingering cases still coming in. Personally, I’ve seen a little bump in viral gastrointestinal infections of late. Wash your hands carefully!”
Sarah Rauner, RN -- Chief pediatric nurse practitioner, Corewell Health’s Beaumont Hospital Troy
“It’s that time of year when our winter and spring illnesses collide. We’re still seeing some upper respiratory infections causing coughs, fevers, and other associated symptoms. Influenza remains one of the many viruses in that category, although it is, hopefully, on the decline for this season. Gastroenteritis, which causes vomiting, diarrhea, and/or a fever, is increasing, so it’s important to wash your hands. Asthma exacerbations and allergy issues are also on the rise. Please continue to stay home when sick, get lots of rest, and get outside for some sunshine and fresh air as spring is near.”
Dr. Rena Daiza -- Primary Care Physician, Henry Ford Medical Center Bloomfield Twp.
“I am still seeing an uptick of viral illnesses in the community. It is important to distinguish between allergies and viral illnesses this time of year. If the usual allergic remedy is not working, patients should consider being tested for COVID-19, influenza, or consider another viral infection. They should take standard precautions when ill with a virus to be sure not to spread it. "
Emergency Department, Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital
“We are seeing a high number of chest pains, abdominal pains, and respiratory issues.”
Washtenaw County – Seasonal allergies, breathing problems, influenza, stomach viruses, COVID, upper respiratory infections
Dr. Brad Uren -- Clinical Associate Professor of Emergency Medicine, Michigan Medicine
“This week, seasonal allergies continue to cause trouble for COPD or asthma patients. Less flu, COVID, and URIs this week. Less GI as well, but still low amounts of all of the above in circulation.”
Washtenaw County Health Department
“Influenza cases in Washtenaw County residents are currently at high levels but appear to be decreasing. Most Influenza cases being reported in Washtenaw County are Influenza A, types A(H1N1) and A(H3). Sporadic cases of Influenza B are being reported. Influenza-related deaths in Washtenaw County adults have been reported this flu season. All individuals were older adults with confirmed Influenza A infection. Flu-related hospitalizations of Washtenaw residents are currently at high levels but appear to be decreasing.”
Monroe County – Influenza, seasonal allergies, respiratory viruses
ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital – Emergency Center
“We are seeing a lot of patients with chest pain, hypokalemia, and influenza A. Patients are also coming in with fall injuries.”
Macomb County – Seasonal allergies, sinus problems, stomach viruses, influenza, pneumonia
Dr. Anthony Joslin -- Emergency physician at McLaren Macomb
“Patients are still presenting with symptoms of nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, though the number of cases continues to taper off. The upturn in weather has led to more patients suffering from their spring allergies, with severe reactions causing breathing complications. Though late in the traditional season, cases of pneumonia and flu continue to be diagnosed in low volumes.”
Dr. Maria Samuel -- Primary Care Physician, Henry Ford Medical Center Sterling Heights
“Seasonal allergies and runny nose, congestion, and sinus problems have predominated this week. We are seeing less viral respiratory infections.”