COVID-19 Measures Slash Respiratory Virus Tests and Cases
The 2020-2021 season saw a significant decrease in Group A Streptococcus (GAS) tests conducted among both adults and children. This drop coincides with a substantial reduction in COVID-19 symptoms and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) cases, both in the US and globally, including the southern hemisphere. Experts attribute this to COVID-19 mitigation measures and potential viral interference.
The US saw a nationwide decrease in Influenza A, Influenza B, and RSV infections among adults and children. This can be largely attributed to community measures such as social distancing, school closures, and mask-wearing. In children, tests for influenza A and B returned 0% positive results, with only one RSV test positive. Similar trends were observed for other less common respiratory viruses. Experts suggest that infection with COVID-19 may have provided some protection against other respiratory viruses through viral interference.
As SARS-CoV-2 becomes a seasonal virus, it is likely that cases of flu and other respiratory infections will rise back to normal levels. However, community mitigating measures such as social distancing, school closures, and mask use may continue to decrease the spread of viral pathogens.
The 2020-2021 season brought a significant decrease in GAS tests and respiratory virus cases, likely due to COVID-19 mitigation measures and potential viral interference. As SARS-CoV-2 becomes seasonal, cases of flu and other respiratory infections are expected to rise. Community measures will remain crucial in controlling the spread of viral pathogens.
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