Minnesota health officials sounding alarm as more kids get sick in state

(Minneapolis, MN) -- Health officials are sounding the alarm as a growing number of kids get sick in Minnesota.

The Minnesota Medical Association and eleven healthcare systems held a news conference to raise awareness about RSV and other widespread illnesses affecting children across the state.

Healthcare experts warned parents to avoid going to the hospital unless their child has serious, persistent symptoms, like the inability to eat and pale or blue skin. Parents were encouraged to contact their pediatricians and use over-the-counter treatment options for mild symptoms.

This comes as the state's urgent cares, clinics, and ERs are overwhelmed with hospitalizations and medication shortages.