The Virginia Department of Health has seen an unusual increase in respiratory illnesses this summer, according to ABC affiliate 13News Now.
Three things to know:
1. Typically, fewer respiratory illnesses occur once flu season ends in May. However, health officials say they've seen more respiratory infections than past summers.
2. The infections are primarily affecting older individuals in assisted living or long-term care facilities. This month, health officials declared respiratory outbreaks at two such facilities in Fairfax County, Va.
3. Statewide, the health department has received reports of various respiratory illnesses, including pertussis, influenza and pneumonia.