The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) has issued a warning regarding the ongoing influenza season, which is expected to run until May 2024. Officials reported a significant increase in flu cases, with the proportion of respiratory virus cases diagnosed as influenza rising from just above 1% on December 6 to nearly 10% by December 27.
During the last week of December, the state recorded an influenza-like activity baseline of approximately 3%, while current estimates hover around 8%. According to Dr. Karen Landers, chief medical officer for ADPH, increased indoor gatherings, travel, and interactions among individuals from various regions have heightened the risk of influenza transmission.
Vaccination and Preventive Measures Recommended
ADPH strongly advocates for annual influenza vaccination for all individuals aged six months and older. In addition, it recommends considering other respiratory virus vaccines based on healthcare provider guidance. “People can protect others by staying home when sick and by covering coughs and sneezes,” Dr. Landers emphasized. She suggested coughing into a sleeve or elbow rather than into a hand to minimize virus spread.
Health officials also highlight the importance of good hygiene practices, including frequent handwashing or the use of hand sanitizer, as well as keeping hands away from the face. If individuals must go out while sick, wearing a mask is advised to mitigate the risk of spreading the virus further. Dr. Landers urges the public to avoid close contact with vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with chronic respiratory conditions.
“I strongly urge people to get the flu vaccine every year and other appropriate respiratory virus vaccines as recommended by their healthcare providers,” Dr. Landers stated. She also recommended consulting healthcare providers before visiting emergency rooms, to help ensure that emergency departments remain available for those in critical need.
Recognizing Symptoms and Seeking Help
Symptoms of influenza typically include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, and fatigue. In some cases, children may also experience vomiting or diarrhea. Anyone experiencing severe symptoms or difficulty breathing should seek immediate medical attention.
For further information on flu vaccination locations and current health guidance, the public is encouraged to contact their healthcare providers or visit the Alabama Department of Public Health’s resources. As flu season continues, proactive measures can significantly reduce the risk of infection for individuals and their communities.
