As the holiday season approaches, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) is closely monitoring respiratory illness activity across the state. Cold weather, increased travel, and family gatherings often contribute to higher rates of flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) during this time of year.

DHS has expanded wastewater testing and updated its respiratory virus dashboards to provide real-time information on virus activity throughout Wisconsin. “In public health, data is our alert system,” said DHS Respiratory Disease Epidemiologist Tom Haupt.   He says with the colder weather and holidays approaching, influenza and RSV cases are on the rise and shares good practices to prevent illness.

Data from the 2024-2025 seasons showed a 211% increase in flu-related hospitalizations immediately following the holidays, highlighting the importance of preventative health maintenance. Hospitalization rates are particularly high among young children and older adults, groups most at risk of severe illness.

DHS Immunization Program Manager Dr. Stephanie Schauer emphasized, “While most people associate respiratory illness with mild symptoms, these viruses can have serious consequences for young children, older adults, and people with chronic conditions.” Residents who feel sick during the holidays are encouraged to stay home until symptoms improve for at least 24 hours without fever.  “Vaccinations are highly recommended and should be top of mind this time of year” she says. 

For more information or for real-time respiratory virus data, Wisconsinites can visit the DHS website.