SALISBURY, Md. -- The Delmarva Peninsula is currently experiencing a resurgence of respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19, influenza, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), leading to heightened concerns across the region. As a result, several health organizations have reintroduced mask mandates to curb the spread of these contagious diseases.

According to the recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Virginia and Maryland have witnessed a significant increase in flu activity, while Delaware has maintained a minimal and almost low level of flu cases. However, RSV seems to be particularly prevalent in Maryland with a positivity rate of nearly 15 percent from over 400 tests, slightly lower than the previous week.

The rising number of hospitalizations is adding to the worries in the region. Delaware reported 102 new hospital admissions in the past week, reflecting a staggering 62 percent surge compared to the previous week. Virginia witnessed 790 hospitalizations, marking a 21 percent increase, and Maryland reported 451 hospitalizations, a slight rise of just over 1 percent.

Health experts attribute this resurgence to the recent holiday season, where increased travel and gatherings have led to more people falling ill and requiring hospitalization.

Dr. Christopher Snyder of Tidal Health has voiced concerns about the severity of the flu. He states, "Our flu count has gone off the rocker this week, so it's been really high. So flu is actually much more virulent right now, and people are sicker with flu than they are with COVID."

Nilesh Kalyanaraman from the Maryland Department of Health recommends individuals to stay up-to-date with vaccinations for COVID-19, influenza, and RSV to protect themselves.

In addition to vaccinations, wearing masks is strongly advocated as an additional protective measure. Tidal Health and the Wicomico County Health Department have implemented their own mask mandates in response to the rise in hospitalizations. Pam Chandler of the Wicomico Health Department explains that mandates are recommended when cases exceed a certain threshold. Currently, the region has surpassed 10 cases per 100,000 residents, prompting the need for mask-wearing in patient care areas.

While some individuals, like Williams, are diligently following mask guidelines to stay safe and prevent the spread of diseases, others, like Rick Smith, are opposed to wearing masks, citing discomfort and perceived ineffectiveness.

Health officials emphasize that although there is an increase in respiratory illnesses, it does not constitute a "spike" or "surge" comparable to the peak of the pandemic. The infections are rising steadily but not at an alarming rate. However, they advise the elderly and individuals with pulmonary issues, lung problems, or chronic diseases to take extra precautions.

Amidst the rising cases, health experts stress the importance of basic preventive measures such as frequent handwashing, testing when feeling unwell, isolating when necessary, and staying home from work to contain the spread of respiratory illnesses. As the new year approaches, the expectation is that infections may continue to rise, necessitating continued vigilance and adherence to public health guidelines.