As the weather fluctuates from spring-like to a wintery blast, residents are encouraged to take the necessary steps to squash any chance of getting the flu.
According to the most recent data provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), influenza activity increased in the United States during week 3 (Jan. 15-21).
The national and regional summary of select surveillance components indicated that Region 4, which includes the state of Tennessee, saw each of their jurisdictions reporting either regional or widespread activity for influenza.
Regional influenza activity was reported by Guam and 12 states, according to the CDC, including Tennessee.
David Kirschke, MD, is the health officer for Carter County and Northeast Tennessee and mentioned a few tips Tuesday to the public to help deter any chance of getting the virus.
“It’s important that if you are sick, to stay at home,” he said. “We also recommend people to wash their hands regularly.”
Kirschke added it isn’t too late to get a flu shot. The doctor indicated that the Carter County Health Department still has free vaccinations available for the flu, with an appointment needed. Other pharmacies across the area, including national brands Walgreens and CVS, also offer flu shots.
The Tennessee Department of Health recently issued a statement in December indicating the severity of influenza.
“While some may think the flu is nothing more than a bad cold, that’s not the case. It can be deadly,” Kelly Moore, MD, director of the Tennessee Immunization Program, said. “Each year we see Tennesseans lose family members and friends to influenza. We urge those who have not yet received their vaccine to go to a county health department, their healthcare provider or a pharmacy and get a flu shot now.”
Moore later stated the flu vaccine is regularly updated to protect against new strands and must be given each flu season.
Flu activity peaks between December and February, according to the CDC, while activity can last as late as May.
The CDC reports that most healthy adults may be able to infect other people beginning just one day before symptoms develop and “up to 5 to 7 days after becoming sick.”