There's been an alarming increase of respiratory and gastrointestinal viruses in the United States lately, causing anxiety about a so-called "quad-demic". According to surveillance reports, influenza, COVID-19, RSV and norovirus are at very high levels everywhere. While the surge aligns with patterns typical for this season, several epidemiologists view simultaneous infections of such proportions to pose risks not only to individual healthcare but public health.

The incidence of the quad-demic should vary with seasonal patterns, vaccination rates, and public health interventions. Each virus alone is relatively easy to manage; however, the effect of all together could lead to overburdening of health care facilities and increase risks for those at higher risk. Continuing surveillance, early testing, and proactive prevention measures will play an important role in the control of these infections going forward.

While the term "quad-demic" sounds daunting, it must be taken into perspective. For years, we have had all these viruses together, and we have the capabilities to mitigate some of the risk. Vaccination, proper hygiene and using common sense helps individuals get through the season unscathed. Is the quad-demic a permanent fixture or just another seasonal wave? Let's break this down.

What is the Quad-demic?

Typically, flu, COVID-19, and RSV have been the primary culprits behind seasonal respiratory infections. However, norovirus, a highly contagious stomach bug, has emerged as a fourth significant player, inducing fears of a more severe and widespread viral outbreak. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the U.S. recorded nearly 500 norovirus outbreaks between August and December 2023, a substantial rise from the previous year’s numbers.

While the term "quad-demic" may sound ominous, the seriousness and consequences of such infections should be weighed in light of the U.S. healthcare system's experience with managing viral surges since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

1. Influenza (Flu)

Flu continues to be one of the most common and alarming seasonal illnesses. In the period spanning from 2023 to 2024, there were approximately 40 million cases of flu, and thousands of hospitalizations along with reported 47 deaths have been reported this season. Flu symptoms include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, muscle pain, and fatigue, with most recovering within a week or two but risky factors for severe illness effects occur in young children, elderly, and people with chronic conditions.

2. Covid-19

Despite its reduction from the first pandemic peak, COVID-19 is still rampant. The CDC estimates that alone between October and December 2023, there were between 2.7 and 5 million cases in the U.S. Hospitalization has increased by cities such as Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York. Symptoms are closely similar to the flu, fever, cough, and fatigue but uniquely presents in some cases as loss of taste and smell.

3. RSV

RSV is the most common cause of lower respiratory infections in infants, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals. While RSV peaked late in 2023 and early 2024, it continues to be a threat because it can lead to bronchiolitis and pneumonia. It is very similar to the common cold, presenting with symptoms such as congestion, runny nose, coughing, and fever, which can make it difficult to differentiate from flu or COVID-19 without testing.

4. Norovirus

Norovirus, also called the "stomach flu," is a highly contagious infection of the gastrointestinal tract, not a respiratory virus. It transmits quickly from contaminated food and water and contact with contaminated surfaces, causing such symptoms as diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and stomach pain. Cases have shot up, the CDC said Monday, with reports of outbreaks surging compared with last year.

Is There a Challenge In Diagnosis Due to Overlapping Symptoms?

The greatest challenge during the quad-demic is how the four viruses are alike and thus make identification very hard with no testing applied. Most cases present symptoms common to all viruses: fever, tiredness, body pains, and respiratory, which includes coughing and congestions for influenza, COVID-19, and RSV; the other would be norovirus symptoms as nausea and vomiting can appear even in extreme influenza and COVID-19. This overlap increases the risk of misdiagnosis and delayed treatment, hence the need for early testing and proper medical guidance.

Also Read: Is US Preparing For A Quad- demic 2025?

Effective Prevention Strategies That Work

The best defense against these viruses is a combination of vaccines, hygiene, and lifestyle precautions. While lifestyle modifications are highlighted as part of the constant need to eat healthy, ensure daily movement and drinking adequate amount of fluids. There is a sure short two preventive strategies that are effective:

Vaccination

• Flu vaccine: Annual flu shots reduce the severity of infection, allergic flare ups and hospitalizations.
• COVID-19 vaccine: Though COVID-19 cases have declined, vaccination remains critical in preventing severe outcomes.
• RSV vaccine: Available for those aged 60 years and older, especially those with underlying conditions.
• Norovirus vaccine: No vaccine is yet available, but mRNA vaccine research is in progress.

Hygiene and Sanitation

• Washing hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after public exposure.
• Disinfect frequently touched surfaces regularly, use sanitiser when outside.
• Avoid close contact with infected people and wear masks.

Do You Need To Wear A Mask All The Time?

While debates on masked wear continue on, experts on mask-wear affirm that this does not only have a historical precedent but works towards reducing airborne viruses spreading within the environments. Hospitals, though, ensure masking in key sections of themselves. Publicized mask-wear remains a discretion, though massing indoors still goes a longer way in cases like peak flu seasons.

If you notice the symptoms of these viruses, then it's best to be confined at home and avoid having face-to-face interaction with others and seek immediate attention from your physician if your condition worsens. Quarantining for some days can decrease the spread of infection.

As we move into the first half of 2025 and beyond, staying informed and proactive is the best strategy for maintaining health and avoiding unnecessary panic. The key takeaway? Stay vigilant, but don’t be alarmed—these viruses are here, but so are the means to fight them.

US President Donald Trump-backed decision by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to stop recommending giving infants a dose of the hepatitis B vaccine within 24 hours after birth is likely to lead to hundreds more infections, deaths, and millions of dollars in higher costs, according to new research.

The research, published in JAMA Pediatrics, comes as federal vaccine advisers to Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. voted in December 2025 to reverse the long-standing recommendation to delay the first shot until at least two months of age for infants born to mothers who test negative for the virus.

While pediatricians, public health experts, and dozens of medical groups warned that it could harm children and their families, the new JAMA studies modelled the potential impact of the policy.

What Did The Studies Predict?

The first study estimated that delaying the first hepatitis B vaccine dose by two months for babies born in a single year to mothers who tested negative — about 80 percent of the 3.6 million US births annually — would increase lifetime health-care costs by at least $16 million, The Washington Post reported.

If vaccination were delayed by seven months, it would cost an additional $19.8 million.

The second study modeled what would happen if only 10 per cent of babies born to unscreened mothers received a birth dose; an additional 628 babies would get infected.

“One of the most concerning implications is how many more infected Hep B babies will we see,” said co-author Rachel Epstein, a pediatric and adult infectious diseases clinician at Boston Medical Center.

“A universal birth dose helps prevent a substantial number of infections in babies of a lifelong condition that we do not have a cure for,” she added.

CDC Had No evidence To Overturn Hepatitis B Vaccine Policy

Since 1991, all infants born in the US have received the first dose of hepatitis B vaccine within 24 hours of birth, a strategy that led to close to a 99 percent decline in infections among children.

Calling the universal birth-dose policy "a safety net", public health and medical experts noted that nearly 15 percent of pregnant women miss recommended hepatitis B screening. More than half of those who test positive do not receive appropriate follow-up care.

Delaying the initial dose also decreases the likelihood that a child will complete the three-shot series needed for full protection, hepatitis experts have said.

The authors argued that the CDC advisory panel departed from standards established for over three decades and failed to weigh key evidence.

“We noticed that the committee did not have the evidence they needed to inform their decision,” co-author Eric Hall, an assistant professor of epidemiology at Oregon Health and Science University, was quoted as saying to The Post.

“But this group kind of blew past all that and didn’t make any effort to fill the evidence gaps that they might have had. They just went ahead anyway.”

Also read: Hepatitis Infections Claims 1.3 Million Lives Worldwide, India Among Top Contributors: WHO

What is Hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver. It is highly contagious and spreads when blood, semen, or other bodily fluids from a person who carries the virus enter the body of someone who is not infected.

Hepatitis B can also pass from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth, whether through a vaginal delivery or a C-section. It is the most common route of transmission.

Vaccination is the most reliable way to prevent hepatitis B. The shots offer strong protection in infancy and continue to shield individuals well into adulthood.

Babies usually receive a three-dose series. A scientific review by the Vaccine Integrity Project found that 95 percent of healthy infants develop enough immunity after the third dose. The vaccine also lowers the risk of infection by nearly 70 percent in babies born to mothers who have hepatitis B.

A biryani feast followed by a serving of watermelon proved deadly for a family of four in Mumbai on Sunday. The incident was reported from the Pydhonie area, where an entire family passed away after eating biryani for dinner and some watermelon before calling it a night. They had watermelon around 1.00 am or 1.30 am, and their condition started to deteriorate around 5.00 am. They all experienced diarrhoea and nausea and eventually passed away. The mystery now remains: was it a case of accidental watermelon poisoning or something else? Abdullah Dokadia (40), his wife Nasreen Dokadia (35), and their two daughters, Ayesha (16) and Zainab (13), lost their lives, and the police are currently suspecting it to be a case of food poisoning. But can eating watermelon really kill you? Let us find out.

What are the signs of watermelon poisoning?

Watermelon is a popular summer fruit that people enjoy eating during the hotter months. It is 70 per cent water, highly hydrating, and also beneficial for weight loss. However, going overboard is discouraged by doctors, as overeating or consuming adulterated watermelon can lead to abdominal discomfort and digestive distress. Watermelon-related food poisoning can occur because of E. coli or salmonella infections. It can cause rapid dehydration, diarrhoea, cramps, fever, weakness, and, in extreme cases, even death.

What happens when you eat too much watermelon?

Dr Aarti Ullal, Physician and Diabetologist at Gleneagles Hospital, Parel, in an interaction with Health and Me, said, “Eating too much watermelon may lead to bloating, stomach discomfort, or loose motions, mainly because of its high water and natural sugar content. In some individuals, especially those with sensitive digestion, it can also cause acidity or mild cramps and disturb their peace of mind.”

Dr Ullal also stated that watermelon poisoning can occur when the fruit is contaminated with pesticides, chemicals, or bacteria due to poor handling or improper storage. The symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, and weakness. These are typically short-term digestive issues but may require medical attention if severe or if they interfere with daily routine. However, questions also arise regarding watermelon allergies. Watermelon allergy is rare and may cause itching in the mouth, swelling, rashes, or stomach upset soon after consumption.

How to check if your watermelon is adulterated?

To check if a watermelon is adulterated, look for an unnaturally bright red colour, cracks, a chemical smell, or an overly soft texture. Always wash the outer surface, as it may contain pesticides or chemicals, before cutting. Make sure to buy from trusted sources to avoid any health issues. Watermelon is safe and healthy to consume, but moderation and proper hygiene are key.

Can eating a watermelon kill you?

Conclusively, it can be said that eating a watermelon specifically should not cause deaths. However, if you bring the fruit home, it is advised to check it for signs of adulteration before consuming. It helps eliminate the possibility of side effects, just in case. However, if you experience food poisoning-like symptoms, consult a doctor immediately.

Viral hepatitis B and C – responsible for 95 per cent of hepatitis-related deaths worldwide – caused 1.3 million deaths worldwide, according to the Global Hepatitis Report 2026, released today by the World Health Organization.

Of these, 1.1 million people died from hepatitis B and 240,000 from hepatitis C. Liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma were the main causes of hepatitis related deaths, stated the report released at the World Hepatitis Summit.

Further, India emerged among the 10 countries that account for 69 per cent of global hepatitis B-related deaths. The country is also among the 10 countries contributing to 58 per cent of hepatitis C-related deaths worldwide.

The Global Hepatitis Burden And Treatment Gap

Despite being preventable and treatable, transmission of hepatitis continues, with more than 4,900 new infections every day, or 1.8 million each year.

As per the WHO report, a whopping 287 million people were living with chronic hepatitis B or C infection in 2024.

The same year, 0.9 million people were newly infected with hepatitis B.

The WHO African Region accounted for 68 per cent of new hepatitis B infections, yet only 17 per cent of newborns in the region received the hepatitis B birth-dose vaccination.

Another 0.9 million hepatitis C infections were recorded in 2024. People who inject drugs accounted for 44 per cent of new infections, highlighting the urgent need for stronger harm reduction services and safe injection practices.

Of the 240 million people with chronic hepatitis B in 2024, fewer than 5 per cent were receiving treatment. Similarly, only 20 per cent of people with hepatitis C have been treated since 2015.

Hepatitis: Measurable Gains

Notably, global efforts to combat viral hepatitis have also delivered measurable progress in reducing infections and deaths since 2015.

The annual number of new hepatitis B infections has dropped by 32 per cent, and hepatitis C-related deaths have fallen by 12 per cent globally.

Hepatitis B prevalence among children under five has also decreased to 0.6 per cent, with 85 countries achieving or surpassing the 2030 target of 0.1 per cent.

“Around the world, countries are showing that eliminating hepatitis is not a pipedream, it's possible with sustained political commitment, backed by reliable domestic financing,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General.

“At the same time, this report shows that progress is too slow and uneven. Many people remain undiagnosed and untreated due to stigma, weak health systems, and inequitable access to care. While we have the tools to eliminate hepatitis as a public health threat, urgent scale-up of prevention, diagnosis, and treatment is needed if the world is to meet the 2030 targets,” he added.

Hepatitis: How To Prevent

The report noted that highly effective tools to combat hepatitis infections are already available. These include the hepatitis B vaccine, which protects more than 95 per cent of vaccinated people against both acute and chronic infections.

Further, the long-term antiviral treatment for hepatitis B can also help effectively manage chronic infection and prevent severe liver disease. Another is the Hepatitis C short-course curative therapy which lasts 8-12 weeks and can cure more than 95 per cent of infections.

The report identifies priority actions to accelerate hepatitis elimination as a public health threat. These include:

• Scaling up treatment for chronic hepatitis B infection,
• Stronger political commitment and financing,
• Improved coverage of hepatitis B birth-dose vaccination
• Expanded antiviral prophylaxis to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HBV infection
• Improve injection safety in both health-care settings and community practices.