Georgia Faces High Levels of RSV in Wastewater, CDC Reports

     The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that Georgia is experiencing high levels of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) in its wastewater, signaling a potential surge in infections across the state. This finding comes as part of the CDC's ongoing efforts to monitor respiratory illnesses through various data channels, including wastewater surveillance.

     According to the CDC's Respiratory Illness Data Channel, Georgia is one of 18 states with "high" or "very high" levels of RSV detected in wastewater. This data is particularly concerning as wastewater analysis can provide an early indicator of infection levels in a community, often before clinical cases are reported. The situation in Georgia aligns with a broader national trend of increasing respiratory virus activity. The CDC reports that as of December 27, 2024, the overall respiratory illness activity across the United States is high, with RSV, COVID-19, and seasonal influenza all showing upward trajectories.

     The surge in RSV cases is already having a significant impact on healthcare services in Georgia. The CDC has reported a sharp rise in emergency room visits related to RSV across the state1. Dr. Ngozika Orjioke, a pulmonologist at Covenant Pulmonary Critical Care in Atlanta, has noted an increase in patients presenting with symptoms consistent with RSV infection, such as cough, fever, and chills.

While RSV typically causes mild, cold-like symptoms in most people, it can lead to severe illness in vulnerable populations, particularly:

• Infants and young children
• Older adults (especially those over 65)
• Individuals with weakened immune systems
• People with chronic heart or lung conditions

     RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis in children under one year old and leads to approximately 58,000 hospitalizations among children under five annually in the United States.

Given the current situation, health experts are advising the public to take preventive measures:

1. Practice good hygiene, including frequent handwashing
2. Wear masks, especially for those at high risk or when in crowded places
3. Stay home when feeling ill to prevent spread
4. Consider RSV vaccination for eligible individuals, particularly those in high-risk groups

     The CDC continues to monitor the situation closely. While the current respiratory virus season is expected to have a similar or lower peak number of combined hospitalizations from COVID-19, influenza, and RSV compared to last year, the overall levels remain significantly higher than pre-COVID-19 times. 

     As Georgia faces this surge in RSV cases, public health officials urge residents to stay informed, take necessary precautions, and seek medical attention if experiencing severe symptoms. The situation underscores the importance of ongoing surveillance and proactive measures in managing respiratory illnesses during the winter season.