Overview of the latest IRAS surge
In recent weeks, the country has seen a sharp rise in acute respiratory infections (IRAS), reaching roughly 40,000 weekly episodes. The uptick began in epidemiological week 33, with 33,143 cases, followed by 35,857 the next week, and a continued increase thereafter. Public health officials stress the need to understand not only how IRAS spreads but also how the medications commonly used to treat symptoms can influence patient outcomes during this surge.
This pattern highlights vulnerabilities across age groups, especially the very young and older adults with chronic conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or cardiovascular disease. As clinicians work to manage a high caseload, awareness of which medicines might worsen the clinical picture becomes a key element of effective care.
Why some medications can worsen IRAS in certain patients
Most people benefit from symptomatic relief during IRAS, but certain drugs can aggravate respiratory symptoms or complicate underlying conditions. Factors include an individual’s comorbidities, the presence of asthma or bronchitis, and how the body metabolizes medicines. Below are commonly encountered scenarios to watch for:
- ACE inhibitors (used for hypertension) can trigger a chronic cough in some people, which may be mistaken for a worsening IRAS and lead to unnecessary adjustments in therapy.
- Beta-blockers (used for heart disease and blood pressure) can in some patients contribute to bronchospasm or reduced lung function, particularly in those with asthma or COPD.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and aspirin may worsen bronchospasm in individuals with aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) or trigger increased symptoms in sensitive patients.
- Codeine-containing cough syrups and some opioids can depress breathing, especially in very young children or in adults with severe IRAS or competing respiratory conditions.
- Sympathomimetic decongestants (found in many cold medicines) can raise heart rate and blood pressure, which can complicate care in older adults or those with cardiovascular disease.
- Respiratory depressants (certain benzodiazepines or strong sedatives) may decrease the drive to breathe in severe illness, requiring careful dosing and monitoring.
These considerations emphasize the importance of personalized care. What helps one patient may hinder another, especially in the context of a high IRAS burden and limited health system capacity during a surge.
Safe alternatives and practical tips for patients and caregivers
During a surge in IRAS, choosing medicines wisely becomes part of the care plan. Consider these practical steps to minimize risk while addressing symptoms:
- Consult before adding new medicines. Always check with a clinician or pharmacist, especially if you have asthma, COPD, hypertension, kidney disease, or are taking multiple prescriptions.
- Read labels carefully. Be mindful of combining several decongestants or medicines with similar active ingredients, which can lead to unwanted side effects.
- Opt for safer symptom relief options when appropriate. Acetaminophen (paracetamol) can reduce fever and discomfort; saline nasal irrigation and humidified air often help with congestion.
- Non-pharmacologic comfort measures. Rest, hydration, light physical activity as tolerated, and warm fluids can support recovery without adding medication burden.
- Monitor for warning signs. Seek urgent care if there is trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion, bluish lips or face, or if symptoms rapidly worsen.
Parents and caregivers should pay special attention to dosing instructions for children and avoid giving adult formulations to kids. Pediatric dosing requires adjustments that reflect age and weight to prevent respiratory or other adverse effects.
When to seek medical advice during the surge
If IRAS symptoms persist beyond a few days, worsen, or are accompanied by high fever, breathing difficulties, or dehydration, contact a health professional. A clinician can review current medications for potential risks, adjust therapy, and determine whether additional investigations or treatments are needed. In some cases, alternative therapies or short-term changes in medication can reduce the risk of adverse respiratory outcomes while still addressing the underlying infection.
Public health perspective: data, safety, and patient care
The uptick in IRAS cases underscores the value of real-time illness surveillance and medication safety monitoring. Health authorities can use these insights to guide messaging on safe medication use, optimize clinical guidelines, and support clinicians in balancing symptom relief with the risk of medication-induced complications. For individuals, staying informed about the potential respiratory effects of certain drugs and seeking professional advice when starting new treatments are important steps in navigating a surge in respiratory infections.
