(Dover, DE – January 15, 2026) As respiratory illness cases rise, the Delaware Healthcare Association today issued a statement on behalf of their hospital members urging precautions to prevent illness and reminding patients where to seek care.
As of Jan. 9, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has classified overall respiratory illness activity in the U.S. as “high,” and “very high” in Delaware. Emergency department visits for flu and respiratory syncytial virus are classified as “high” as well.
Hospitals expect to see a surge in respiratory illness during the winter season and prepare annually to care for Delawareans in need. It’s important to seek care for non-life-threatening conditions such as coughs and colds from primary care and urgent care. Many virtual options are available as well. If it is an emergency, go to your nearest emergency department or dial 9-1-1. Knowing where to go for care and ensuring that the hospital emergency department is only used for emergencies will help you get the right care at the right time and can help everyone avoid long wait times.
“Meeting the needs of all Delawareans is the number one priority of our hospitals. Respiratory illness season is in full swing, but it’s not too late to get vaccinated against flu, COVID-19, and if applicable, RSV. We also recommend preventative measures like frequent handwashing, maintaining social distance, wearing a face mask that covers both your nose and mouth, and staying home when sick. These precautions are essential to keeping all of us healthy,” said Brian Frazee, President & CEO of the Delaware Healthcare Association.
“This season has been challenging, but there are many ways Delawareans can reduce their risk to protect themselves and their loved ones as respiratory viruses are circulating at higher levels,” Delaware Health and Social Services Secretary Christen Linke Young said. “Staying aware of symptoms, reducing exposure when possible, and remembering it’s not too late to get vaccinated can help keep families healthy and lessen strain on our health care systems as winter continues.”
Please contact your provider for information on respiratory illness vaccination. Additionally, the state announced that flu, RSV, pneumonia, COVID-19 vaccines, as well as all other routine vaccinations, are available at Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) Clinics for Delawareans six months and older. Clinics are in all three counties, and Delawareans are encouraged to contact locations to confirm hours and services.
About the Delaware Healthcare Association
The Delaware Healthcare Association (DHA) was formed in 1967 and is a statewide trade and membership services organization that represents and serves hospitals, health systems, and related healthcare organizations in their role of providing a continuum of appropriate, cost-effective, quality care to improve the health of the people of Delaware. DHA’s mission is to provide policy and advocacy leadership in creating an excellent environment to support our members in helping every Delawarean to be as healthy as they can be.