This week, before emancipation, Appalachia provided pathways to freedom for enslaved people trying to escape bondage. A new project identifies more than two dozen previously unknown underground railroad sites. Also, the Fly Around Music & Arts Festival in North Carolina was inspired by the hard work that followed Hurricane Helene. And, a ballad about floods recorded a generation ago still provides solace for people today.
Precautions Advised To Prevent Respiratory Illnesses During Holidays
COVID-19Centers for Disease Control & Prevention
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With COVID-19, the flu, and other respiratory illnesses usually surging in the winter months, West Virginians are advised to take precautions.
“It is so easy to transmit many of these viruses from touching, hugging, being close, in very close proximity to others, so obviously keeping some separation — but also frequent hand washing and or using a hand sanitizer, keeping those out for the whole family to use during the holidays,” Dr. Steven Eshenaur, health officer and executive director of the Kanawha-Charleston Health Department, said.
Dr. Steven Eshenaur Credit: Kanawha-Charleston Health Department
Eshenaur also emphasized that some are at more risk than others. Generally, newborns and the elderly have weaker immune systems.
“If you’re sick, I know you may want to go hug the new baby, the new niece, the new nephew or new grandchild,” Eshenaur said. “It’s probably best not to do that, to help protect them because of their lack of immunity.”
Eshenaur says while this is the mildest viral year of the last few for Kanawha County, he is concerned about immunization rates remaining low. That could mean a larger outbreak later in the season.
The state last updated its weekly respiratory dashboard Dec. 20. It recorded minimal risk for influenza and a declining weekly COVID-19 hospitalization rate. However, medical visits for respiratory symptoms were increasing.
Credit: West Virginia Department of Health
This year, positive influenza tests peaked in March, and positive COVID-19 tests peaked in September, according to the dashboard.
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