Is America Facing a Quad-Demic? Flu, COVID, RSV, and Norovirus Spread Across the Country

As the Arctic cold is forecast to sweep across nearly the entire United States, various infectious diseases, including influenza, COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and norovirus, are already rampant.

Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals that at least 5.3 million flu cases have been reported nationwide this winter, with 63,000 hospitalizations.

The flu death toll has reached 2,700, including 11 children.

The AP reported that patient numbers surged around the holiday season, with 40 out of 50 states assessing flu prevalence as high or very high last week.

Dr. Carrie Reed of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said, “A lot of flu out there.” She noted that various seasonal flu strains drive up patient numbers, and no dominant strain has been identified.

The flu outbreak has been particularly severe in the country’s southern, southwestern, and western regions.

Many patients are also infected with COVID-19, which presents flu-like symptoms, and RSV, which poses significant risks to infants and older people.

Fortune highlighted concerns over a potential “quad-demic,” with the simultaneous spread of influenza, COVID-19, RSV, and norovirus.