Impact of Social Distancing and Travel Restrictions on Non–Coronavirus Disease 2019 (Non–COVID-19) Respiratory Hospital Admissions in Young Children in Rural Alaska

Abstract

Hospitalizations due to non-coronavirus disease 2019 (non-COVID-19) respiratory illnesses decreased dramatically after social distancing was implemented in a high-risk population in rural Alaska; an unprecedented decline compared to the past 10 respiratory seasons. This demonstrates the potential secondary benefits of implementing social distancing and travel restrictions on respiratory illnesses.