News

Actions

Local doctors say cases of upper-respiratory viruses are increasing

Posted at 7:31 PM, Dec 09, 2016
and last updated 2016-12-09 20:31:55-05
Are coughing, sniffling or other cold symptoms lingering at your office or home? Local doctors say upper-respiratory viruses are picking up around the area.  
 
"A lot of people are getting sick lately at our workplace,” said Devon Benske of Milwaukee. 
 
The latest round can last up to two to three weeks, turning one of the happiest times of the year into a dreaded battle against common symptoms for some. 
 
"A lot of coughing, runny nose,” said Lauren Lathers of Milwaukee.
Pharmacies like Hayek’s in Shorewood are seeing a steady flow targeting their row of short-term solutions. 
 
“It’s definitely picked up in the last three or four weeks,” said pharmacist Kelley Johnson. 
 
Greendale Doctor, Mario Montalbo, said he’s treated an influx of common cold patients.  
 
"Everybody is staying together, gatherings for the holidays, then the colder weather, no one’s going outside,” said Montalbo. "It can be from the sinus, it can be from the throat, it could be the lungs." 
 
Montalbo urges everyone to stay vigilant by washing hands and covering mouths often. 
 
"Touch the door knob, got to wash your hands again,” he said. 
 
But those who are already sick should follow Lathers’ remedies. 
 
"I prioritize my sleep but I also make sure to eat healthy, drink a lot of water and exercise,” she said.  
 
Mountable says this virus is very common in mid-December. However, he has yet to see any cases of the flu.