Central Coast hospitals prepare for the winter tripledemic

SALINAS, Calif. (KION-TV): Hospitals across the nation prepare for another winter tripledemic. Salinas Valley Health said they've seen an uptick of COVID-19, flu and RSV cases.

"A lot of my friends are testing positive for covid-19," said Joy McMurtry, who lives in Monterey

McMurtry said she's taking precautionary measures to not get infected with COVID-19, the flu, or RSV, especially before the holidays.

"I mean, I have the vaccines, but you just never know," said McMurtry

Infections disease experts said respiratory illness cases have increased in Monterey County.

"A lot of patients, hospitalized, at least in our facility," said Infectious Disease Specialist Dr. Mahendra Poudel with Salinas Valley Health. "With those respiratory virus related illnesses, Covid-19, influenza, RSV."

Dr. Poudel said one thing they've seen based on their testing is the predominant strain of influenza.

That's why medical experts think it's important to stay safe for the holidays.

"Washing their hands, if you're sick, you may want to stay away," said Dr. Poudel. "From big gatherings, so you don't get other people sick." said Dr. Poudel.

Dr. Poudel said when people get infected with any of the three respiratory viruses the recovery process might be different, depending on how they react to the virus.

Salinas Valley Health said people can get make an appointment and get all three vaccines at the same time if they're eligible for it.