Okay, the common cold never really went away during the coronavirus pandemic but it sure wasn't as prominent as it usually is during the appropriately named cold and flu season last year. I was actually having a discussion over the weekend with a friend and we were both lamenting how nice it has been to have not been noticeable ill for more than a year and a half.

I guess that just proves that even an ill wind can blow some good. The coronavirus pandemic and the associated handwashing, face covering, and social distancing that went along with it also helped our state and our nation basically avoid any major impact from colds and flu. However, as those mitigation measures relax, we can expect more of those maladies to return.

In fact, many Louisiana hospitals are reporting an uptick in cases of Respiratory Syncytial Virus. If you're a parent you know this ailment as RSV. Normally we see the most cases of it during the winter months but as the masks come down and people start to get together, especially kids, case counts are on the rise.

The good news is that the virus that causes RSV like the virus that causes COVID-19 can be mitigated. Regular and frequent handwashing is a great way to start the process. Obviously, if you don't have to be around sick people then it would certainly be to your advantage to avoid them. And if you or your child is sick, sequester them away from others until they are no longer contagious.

Now, we do have vaccines for COVID-19 and the flu but there is no jab for RSV. So, if you suspect symptoms in your child, consult your healthcare provider immediately so they can begin a treatment protocol.

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