3/28/2018
It may slowly be warming up, but good weather is no match for this year's flu season.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) warns a second wave of the virus is now in the air. What does this mean for Arkansas?
According to the Arkansas Department of Health’s (ADH) most recent flu report, since Oct. 1, 2017 nearly 53,000 positive influenza tests have been reported in the state.
The virus is thinning out here, but no one is in the clear just yet.
“We haven't seen the second wave come through since back in February,” said Dr. Bruce White with MedExpress Urgent Care.
Should you still be concerned about the flu?
Even with declining numbers, the ADOH thinks it’s better for all to be safe, rather than sorry.
“This has been a very long, intense flu season for many people,” Dr. Jennifer Dillaha, ADOH Medical Director for Immunizations, said.
There are still local concerns as the virus can stay active well into May, usually when kids are still in school.
“Statewide, we've had 205 deaths. Five were children. The remainder of deaths were older adults, age 65 and older,” said Dr. Dillaha.
The CDC reports 133 pediatric deaths nationwide so far
Dr. White admits MedExpress locations are still seeing flu cases. It's still advised that everyone plays their part in helping to keep germs at bay so that those numbers can continue to decline in the state.
“Everyone out there should cough into their elbows if they can and wash their hands. You can't stress that enough because we're always touching our face, or somewhere around our nose, and don't even realize it,” he said.
She also advised to continue taking precautions despite the change in weather, especially pregnant women, older adults and people with chronic illnesses.
“Such are asthma, heart disease or other lung problems. There are other decreased immune systems that may not be able to fight the flu off as well,” said Dr. White.
If you haven't had a flu shot and you're planning to travel near the southern hemisphere soon, protect yourself now instead of ruining your vacation.
A vaccine likely won’t be available after June.
Courtesy of THV11. Original article can be viewed here.