Lincoln sees more respiratory virus cases after holidays; officials expect increase to continue

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Lincoln hospitals are seeing an increase in patients with respiratory viruses since the holidays.

Numbers from Bryan Health suggest that COVID-19 cases climbed over Christmas.

In the week ending Dec. 17, the hospital had 18 COVID patients. Last week, that number was 34.

But illness was increasing even before the holidays.

The Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department said there were 233 COVID-19 cases reported the week before Christmas, which was an increase from 201 cases the previous week.

It also reported highs for influenza and RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus.

“Respiratory illness in Lancaster County is increasing, and we anticipate it’s going to continue to do that in the next weeks,” Health Director Pat Lopez said.

Many in the community were aware of this, and they took precautions during the holidays. 

“I just pretty much stayed at home, just avoided people,” Ryan Connolly said. “Seems like it’s getting a lot worse around the wintertime, and just didn’t seem worth it to me.”

Lopez said it is important to be cautious, especially if you are around immunocompromised people. 

“Be sure you’re washing your hands. Taking all those other precautions are really important right now,” Lopez said. “But the most important thing is if you don’t feel well, to please stay home.” 

There are vaccines available for RSV, COVID and the flu. 

The health department also offers free COVID tests at its office at 3131 O St. and at city libraries.