Over the past month, influenza test positivity has steadily increased. Emergency department visits for influenza and RSV are also increasing. Although hospital admissions for these illnesses are increasing, overall hospitalization rates remain low. Notably, fewer influenza vaccines have been administered this year compared to the same period last year. 

Currently, COVID-19 activity, as measured by percent positivity, remains low—lower than during the same period in each of the past five seasons. 

Avian influenza A(H5N1) detections continue among wild birds and backyard poultry in the United States. Providers should evaluate patients with acute respiratory symptoms or conjunctivitis for avian influenza, especially if they have had recent exposure to animals or individuals suspected or confirmed to have the virus or have consumed raw dairy products. 

Awareness

Providers should remain informed about the circulation of respiratory viruses - including COVID-19, influenza, and RSV - by regularly consulting the following resources: 

• Orange County Respiratory Virus Surveillance
• California Respiratory Virus Dashboard
• CDC Respiratory Illness Data Channel

Prevention 

The Orange County Health Care Agency (HCA) strongly recommends adherence to CDPH vaccination guidelines to prevent seasonal respiratory viruses: 

• Public Health for All – CDPH Respiratory Virus Vaccine Recommendations

Treatment

• Specific medications are available for the treatment of influenza and COVID-19. In certain cases, post-exposure prophylaxis may also be appropriate.
• CDC Treating Flu with Antiviral Drugs
• IDSA Guidelines on the Treatment and Management of Patients with COVID-19

• Recommendations for Prevention and Control of COVID-19, Influenza, and Other Respiratory Viral Infections in California Skilled Nursing Facilities – 2025-26
• CDPH Avian Influenza A -Information for Health Professional

For questions or concerns please contact the Communicable Disease Control Division at 714-834-8180.