Weird Rhinovirus Going Around

This weird cold virus is landing kids in the hospital, and there aren't enough beds. How to stay healthy. A school throw-up funny. And recalls on mugs and jewelry.

February 14, 2025

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A Weird Strain of Rhinovirus Is Going Around

We’re seeing a weird, more potent strain of Rhinovirus going around right now—Rhinovirus is basically a common cold virus. Its hitting some kids harder than usual. I have a few patients who’re in the hospital. It’s that bad.

We saw a pretty good spike in Rhinovirus right after Thanksgiving a few months back. That, too, was a more virulent strain. I’m not sure whether what we’re seeing now is the same strain roaring back, or if it’s a different strain.

Either way, stay vigilant and wash your hands. Cover those sneezes in the bend of your elbow. DO NOT sneeze into your hands. Gross!

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Not Enough Hospital Beds Right Now

EVERYONE is sick right now. I spent 2 hours yesterday trying to get a hospital bed for a patient at our local children’s hospital. The hospital had 25 kids in the ER waiting for beds. What a mess! It feels like one of the worst cough and cold seasons in a long time.

❝

So what is going around?
EVERYTHING! 

In addition to the aforementioned rhinovirus, this what I’m seeing the most of right now:

  1. Influenza A (my partner actually saw 2 cases of Flu B last week, so my guess is that there is more of that to come)

  2. RSV (the raspy cough that affects little kids the worst)

  3. COVID (both COVID-19 and non COVID-19 strains)

  4. Rhinovirus (see above)

  5. Parainfluenza (causes croup, usually a fall bug)

  6. Mycoplasma pneumoniae (causes community acquired pneumonia)

  7. Strep throat

  8. The vomit bug (some unidentified strain that isn’t influenza)

So the question begs, when should I take my kid into the doctor? While most illnesses can be handled at home, seek medical care if any of the following fit:

  1. Fever in a child under 2 months

  2. Fever that lasts beyond 5 days

  3. Recurrent fever (e.g., fever was there the first few days, went away for a few days, then came back)

  4. Vomiting so bad/long that the child isn’t able to stay hydrated

  5. Cough that is getting significantly worse

  6. Any signs of trouble breathing (e.g., retractions, breathing fast)

  7. You’re child is lethargic, unable to rouse, or looks really off

  8. You’re parental instinct tells you that your kid is in trouble

  9. Specific symptoms after an exposure to a treatable, contagious infection (e.g., strep throat)

How to Stay Healthy

I was volunteering at one of my kid’s Valentine’s party today and another mom asked, “how do you stay well?” in your work.

It’s simple defense.

  1. Wash your hands a lot, especially when you walk into your house after being in public. (I go so far as to shower and change when I get home from work.)

  2. Get plenty of sleep. (Sleep is a super power when it comes to health.)

  3. Eat healthy foods, especially nutrient-rich vegetables.

  4. Drink lots of water.

  5. Exercise regularly.

  6. Stay away from sick people.

  7. I wear a mask for all visits this time of year (even the “well” kids have gunky noses this time of year).

Lastly, if you happen to fall victim to a bug, stay home. Recover. Avoid getting yet another bug on top of the one you already have when you’re immune system is taxed. Finally, do everyone else the favor and stop the spread (don’t send your sick kids to school either).

Despicable Me Lol GIF

The Funny This Week

I had a cute patient come into clinic after throwing up at school.

He made sure to tell me, “I threw up…but I didn’t throw up my energy!”

His mom and I got the giggles big time. If only we had energy like that.

Recalls & Alerts: Stanley Mugs & Jewelry

Stanley recalls approximately 2.6 million travel mugs due to potential burn hazard

Stanley has recalled approximately 2.6 million Stanley Switchback and Trigger Action mugs this week after nearly 40 burn reports.

abcnews.go.com/GMA/Living/stanley-recalls-approximately-26-million-travel-mugs-due/story?id=116727011#:~:text=According%20to%20the%20company%2C%20the,States%2C%20according%20to%20Thursday's%20notice.

Nearly 7,000 children's jewelry sets recalled for dangerous lead, cadmium levels

The PA Department of Health is warning parents of the recent recall of Yaomiao Children's Jewelry sets.

www.wnep.com/article/money/personal-finance/recalls/department-of-health-warning-parents-of-childrens-jewelry-recall-yaomiao-pennsylvania-lead-cadmium-levels-us-consumer-product-safety/523-059f871e-738d-41cb-be73-3a9872f54bdd

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Legal Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice or medical treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or the health and welfare of your child. We do not endorse any specific products or brands mentioned in this article. Readers are encouraged to perform their own research and consult with appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on the information provided herein.