According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nationwide flu rates are on the rise. And here in Virginia, the state’s Department of Health is reporting an upward trend as well. Recent emergency department visits for the flu are up 9.3 percent. Other respiratory illness rates, including for COVID-19 and RSV, are currently stable.
For the week ending February 1, there were nearly 5,000 influenza A cases reported in Virginia. That’s more than double the amount of cases reported at the same time last month. Data shows many of the cases were reported in long-term care facilities and K-12 schools.
Dr. Ashlee Williams, a board-certified internal medicine physician at Kaiser Permanente, says cold weather means more people gathering indoors. “Usually these upper respiratory infections are spread by respiratory particles, and so when you’re in close contact with people, it’s easier to spread the illnesses.”
Williams recommends bolstering your immunity by getting enough rest, exercising, and eating right. That includes “a high-protein diet and making sure you’re eating lots of fruits and vegetables.” She also recommends cutting back on smoking and alcohol usage, both of which can also leave you vulnerable to viruses.
The CDC recommends that everyone ages 6 months and older should get the annual flu vaccine. Williams agrees. “There is some hesitance, I think, sometimes, to get the vaccine,” Williams says. “So, you can go to websites such as kp.org, cdc.gov, and nih.gov, to get more information so that you can be well informed.”
Dr. Kathleen M. Kadow, a pediatrician at Children’s National Pediatricians & Associates Silver Spring, says “getting the flu shot decreases doctors’ visits, missed school days, and hospitalization.” She offers additional advice for parents contemplating whether or not their child should get the vaccine.
If you’re feeling sick, and aren’t sure if it’s the flu, a cold, or something else, here are some general guidelines to help.
Feature image, stock.adobe.com
