What’s Going Around: Seasonal allergies, strep throat, influenza, stomach viruses, COVID

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 – Seasonal allergies, strep throat, influenza, stomach viruses, COVID

Dr. Kevin Dazy -- Pediatrician at Children’s Hospital of Michigan

“We’re seeing a good amount of strep, and we’re still seeing influenza. It is near the end of flu season. As the weather improves and we are outdoors more, that will decrease one’s risk factor for the transmission of viruses such as flu.”

Dr. Glen Clark -- Emergency Center Chief, Corewell Health’s Beaumont Hospital Grosse Pointe

“We’re seeing a lot of viral gastroenteritis (the stomach flu). We’re also seeing the occasional COVID and influenza cases still, but much less in the last few weeks.”

Oakland County – Seasonal allergies, asthma flare-ups, sinus infections, stomach viruses, influenza, COVID

Dr. Matthew Compton -- Chief of Emergency Medicine at DMC Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital.

“We’re definitely transitioning to warmer weather and seeing decreases in respiratory infections. We’re also seeing Increasing numbers of primarily minor trauma from outdoor activities. We’re not yet seeing boating-related visits, which tend to start going up as people put their boats in the water at our many lakes in the area. Please enjoy the water safely.”

Dr. Steve McGraw -- Director of Emergency Medicine, Ascension Providence Hospital, Southfield and Novi Campuses

“I’m still seeing patients with spring illnesses like allergies, Viral sinus infections, gastroenteritis, and asthma flare-ups with the

temperature fluctuations and budding trees/pollens/grasses. The flu is present but dwindling like COVID-19. This is a reminder for everyone to take care and watch for cyclists and pedestrians as the temperatures warm up. Everyone should wear a helmet while bike riding.”

Dr. Rena Daiza -- Primary Care Physician, Henry Ford Medical Center Bloomfield Twp.

“This week, there have been many sports-related injuries in the office. As the weather improves, there are more outdoor activities including sports. Reminder to take precautions with activity including warm-ups and cool-downs, use proper techniques, wear protective gear as needed, and know when to rest.”

Dr. Sanford Vieder -- Emergency Center Chief, Corewell Health Hospital Farmington Hills

“It appears the worst of both COVID and influenza are behind us. With spring in Michigan finally here, it seems, we continue to see some of the negative impacts of environmental allergens on those with chronic respiratory issues, such as asthma and emphysema. For those who suffer with seasonal allergies, we continue to encourage preventative therapy programs, but if significant symptoms persist, a primary care physician can help initiate advanced treatment. Additionally, we are keeping a close eye on national concerns regards to bird flu, though thankfully, we have not seen any local cases as of yet.”

Washtenaw County – Seasonal allergies, COPD & asthma flare-ups, stomach viruses, upper respiratory infections, COVID, influenza

Dr. Brad Uren -- Clinical Associate Professor of Emergency Medicine, Michigan Medicine

“Much less URIs, covid, and flu this week. A little bit of GI illness still in circulation on the adult side. Recent high pollen counts have continued to cause problems for people that are susceptible such as those with COPD, asthma, etc.”

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, COVID viral illnesses, stomach viruses, seasonal allergies

ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital – Emergency Center

“We are seeing an increase in influenza A, COVID-19, and viral illnesses. Patients are also coming in with chest pain, nausea/vomiting, and fall-related injuries.”

Macomb County – Seasonal allergies, stomach viruses, strep throat, upper respiratory viruses, pneumonia

Dr. Melissa Rivers -- Emergency physician at McLaren Macomb

“Notable for its lateness in the traditional season, several patients have been diagnoses with pneumonia after experiencing a deep, persistent cough, shallow breathing, and fever. The upturn in weather has started the allergy season and has caused sufferers to experience congestion, sneezing, and trouble breathing. While testing negative for the flu, COVID, and RSV, viral upper respirating infections continue to cause similar symptoms of congestion, runny nose, and slight fever. Along with the spring weather has come an increase in patients suffering orthopedic injuries sustained in outdoor activities.”

Henry Ford-GoHealth Urgent Care

“We have seen an increase in seasonal allergies. We also are seeing viral gastroenteritis, bacterial pharyngitis (strep throat) and viral upper respiratory infections.”

Livingston County -- Did not report this week


About the Authors

Dr. McGeorge can be seen on Local 4 News helping Metro Detroiters with health concerns when he isn't helping save lives in the emergency room at Henry Ford Hospital.

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