St. Louis Metropolitan Pandemic Task Force

12/05/2022

Fever, cough, sore throat and body aches? Here is a summary of flu symptoms and where to go for care.

It is never too late to get your flu shot and they are available for free at area retail pharmacies.

11/23/2022

When is it time to see a doctor when RSV symptoms hit? Here are some things to consider.

11/22/2022

Flu is presenting earlier than last year and vaccination is a great, effective prevention tool.

The number of RSV cases is expected to stay high for about another month, coinciding with what is expected to be an early and hard-hitting flu season.

11/21/2022

There is no magic cure for RSV - here are some ways to keep the healing process going.

11/16/2022

RSV is highly contagious but symptoms are easy to recognize. If your child has these symptoms keep them home from school or daycare.

11/14/2022

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Here are six helpful steps to keep in mind to prevent the spread of RSV, which is affecting more families in our region than ever before.

11/09/2022

RSV arrived in our area earlier than usual this season and it's affecting more infants and toddlers than ever. Here are some tips on how the virus spreads, how to recognize symptoms and when to seek medical care.

11/07/2022

Some easy steps to help keep kids safe from RSV.
Mercy

RSV is a highly contagious seasonal virus that's affecting children in our communities. Keep your kids safe from RSV this season with these preventative tips.

11/01/2022

Hospitals throughout St. Louis are seeing an unprecedented number of pediatric RSV cases as well as flu and and rhinovirus infections. Leaders and members of the Task Force share what concerns parents and families have regarding these illnesses and what can be done to reduce the spread.

BJC HealthCare
SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital
Mercy Hospital South
St. Luke's Hospital - St. Louis

10/26/2022

RSV, flu and other respiratory virus numbers are spiking for kids across our region and are causing increased ER visits and hospitalizations. When a child arrives at the hospital with a life-threatening emergency, they will be seen immediately. Families who come to us with non-urgent issues will experience long waits to be seen in the ER because care is prioritized by severity of illness.

The best things families can do if their child is experiencing symptoms of a respiratory virus are to:
• Keep them home from school or daycare
• Connect with their pediatrician, virtual care provider or local urgent care
• Take preventive measures: flu shots are widely available

Stay well,
BJC HealthCare, SSM Health, Mercy Hospital St. Louis

10/25/2022

Pediatricians said the number of respiratory syncytial virus cases they are seeing right now are not typical for this time of year.

10/21/2022

Pediatric cases of RSV and other respiratory illnesses are on the rise in our area. Knowing where and when to go for care is the start of getting them better!

It’s the time of year for pumpkins and bonfires. But sniffles, coughs, and fevers could put a damper on your fall fun. Respiratory illnesses like RSV and flu are creating long wait times across the region. To avoid a long wait and to help keep our emergency departments focused on life-threatening emergencies, here is a resource to help you decide the best place to take your child based on symptoms.