Common Respiratory Viruses Plummet in 2020-2021 Season
The 2020-2021 season saw a significant drop in common respiratory viruses, including influenza A, B, and RSV, along with a decrease in Group A Streptococcus (GAS) tests. This phenomenon was observed in both adults and children, with similar trends noted globally.
No cases of influenza A, B, or RSV were detected in adults during the 2020-2021 season. In children, only one case of RSV was reported, with no influenza A or B cases. The number of GAS tests performed also decreased significantly in both adults and children.
Community measures such as social distancing, school closures, and mask usage may have contributed to this decline. Additionally, infection with COVID-19 might have offered some protection against other respiratory viruses through a process called viral interference.
The 2020-2021 season witnessed a substantial reduction in common respiratory viruses and GAS tests. While community measures played a role, COVID-19 infection might have also provided some protection. Further research is needed to fully understand these findings.
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