What Families Should Know About The ‘Quad-Demic’
As families across the U.S. face the ongoing cold and flu season, healthcare professionals nationwide are bracing for the “quad-demic” — a convergence of four significant viral illnesses: COVID-19, influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and norovirus. According to recent data, COVID-19 cases in the U.S. have remained consistent at 6.6%, with a 10% increase in COVID-19 hospitalizations reported in the last month. There have been 9.1 million reported cases of the flu this season, with 110,000 hospitalizations and 4,700 deaths nationwide. RSV cases are also peaking, with pediatric hospitalizations on the rise nationwide. And last (but certainly not least), norovirus cases have spiked by a staggering 30% in January 2025 alone.
Together, these viruses are creating a perfect storm of illness that has the potential to put a significant strain on providers and healthcare systems alike. Here’s what you need to know about these four viruses, as well as some helpful tips on how to protect your health and the health of your loved ones during this challenging season.
- COVID-19
The COVID-19 virus remains a persistent presence worldwide, with new variants like the XEC and FLiRT leading the pack as the most dominant strains of the virus being reported currently. Symptoms of COVID-19 can range from mild (fever, cough and fatigue) to severe (difficulty breathing and chest pain). COVID-19 spreads primarily through respiratory droplets and can potentially have long-term effects, known as “long COVID,” even after mild infections.
COVID-19 Prevention Tips:
- Visit Midwest Express Clinic for COVID-19 testing and expert medical guidance to help keep you protected.
- Wear face masks in crowded settings like airports and grocery stores.
- Practice good hygiene and avoid close contact with sick individuals.
- Influenza
Influenza, simply known as the flu, is a respiratory virus that peaks during the fall and winter months. Symptoms include fever, chills, body aches, fatigue and sore throat. While the flu virus can resolve on its own in most healthy individuals, it can lead to serious complications in young children, adults over 65 and those with chronic health issues.
Influenza Prevention Tips:
- Stop by one of our convenient locations across Northwest Indiana and Chicagoland for your flu shot and professional care if you experience severe symptoms.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water.
- Avoid close contact with those exhibiting flu-like symptoms.
- RSV
Respiratory syncytial virus is a common virus that affects people of all ages. However, it poses the greatest risk to infants, young kids and older adults. While initial symptoms can mimic a common cold (runny nose, coughing and low-grade fever), RSV has the potential to lead to more severe respiratory issues, such as bronchiolitis or pneumonia.
RSV Prevention Tips:
- Midwest Express Clinic offers RSV evaluations and treatment options for high-risk individuals—visit today for expert care.
- Wash hands often and disinfect commonly used surfaces, including countertops and sinks.
- Avoid exposing infants and high-risk individuals to those infected with RSV or any other respiratory illness.
- Norovirus
Norovirus (sometimes called “stomach flu”) is a highly contagious virus that causes gastrointestinal symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhea and stomach cramps. It spreads through contaminated food, water, surfaces or close contact with sick individuals. Outbreaks are most common in schools, nursing homes and other communal settings.
Norovirus Prevention Tips:
- If you’re experiencing severe dehydration or symptoms, Midwest Express Clinic provides walk-in care and treatment options to help you recover quickly.
- Wash hands thoroughly, especially after using the restroom or before handling food.
- Clean and disinfect commonly used surfaces regularly.
- Stay home when experiencing symptoms to prevent spreading the virus.
When to seek medical care
While most viral infections resolve on their own, it’s vital to seek immediate medical attention if you or a loved one experiences:
- Difficulty breathing or chest pain
- Persistent high fever
- Dehydration symptoms, such as dry mouth, reduced urination and dizziness
- Symptoms that worsen or fail to improve after several days of treatment
At Midwest Express Clinic, our expert urgent care providers are here to keep you and your family protected throughout cold and flu season—and beyond. Whether you need a flu shot, COVID-19 testing, RSV evaluations, or treatment for common seasonal illnesses, we offer fast, high-quality care every day. Trust us to help you stay happy, healthy, and worry-free all year long. Find a Midwest Express Clinic near you at midwestexpressclinic.com/locations.