Island County Sees Rising Respiratory Illnesses, Flu Increasing

Island County Public Health issued an update on December 24 that flagged a rise in acute respiratory illness across the county while noting that COVID 19 activity was low and stable. Influenza activity was reported as rising, and respiratory syncytial virus was described as stable within Island County even as RSV activity climbed in the larger NorthSound ACH region. The notice included emergency department visit data for CDC Week 51, covering December 14 through December 20, 2025, and guidance intended to help residents and health partners make informed decisions during the busy winter respiratory season.

The county health update places local trends in the context of regional signals that could affect Island County hospitals and clinics. Rising influenza activity can increase demand for primary care and emergency services, particularly during the holiday period when routine access to care is limited. Stable COVID 19 activity provides some reassurance, but concurrent circulation of multiple respiratory viruses creates challenges for schools, elder care facilities, employers, and families caring for young children and older adults.

Local emergency department visit data provided by the county offer a near real time snapshot of health system use during CDC Week 51. That information can help health partners match staffing and supplies to anticipated needs, and it gives residents a fact based sense of how the season is unfolding. The update also included public guidance and resources for Islanders seeking next steps or more detailed information.

Residents are advised to review the county update for specific guidance and to consult their health care providers if they or family members develop severe symptoms. Community leaders and care facilities can use the data to consider short term adjustments in staffing and infection prevention practices. As winter continues, monitoring by Island County Public Health will remain important for responding to changing respiratory illness activity and protecting vulnerable residents.