The convergence of respiratory illnesses – COVID-19, influenza, RSV, and the common cold – has created complex challenges for public health systems this winter season. Missouri health officials report a concerning seven-fold increase in whooping cough cases, while flu cases remain relatively low as of December 7, 2024. “There are concerning overlapping dangers of the risk of flu with our high burden of chronic disease in Missouri,” states Dr. Heidi Miller, chief medical officer with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. “Heart disease remains the number one cause of death among Missourians, and 9 of 10 adults hospitalized … Continue reading Missouri’s Whooping Cough Cases Surge 10-Fold; Flu Cases Exceed 3,000 Amid Rising Heart Attack Risks