Flu cases in Missouri and Illinois reach ‘Very High’ level according to CDC
“We have been very busy”
ST. LOUIS, Mo. (First Alert 4) - If it seems like everyone around you is getting some sickness or bug recently, you’re not alone. The CDC is declaring St. Louis an influenza “hotspot”.
According to the Missouri Department of Health and Human Services, positivity rates are up to 35%, and there were nearly 15,000 cases in the week ending February 8. At the same time, hospital visits for the flu increased by 5%.
From researchers to local urgent care centers, flu has been top of mind for nearly everyone. Dr. Bakale, an assistant physician at North City Urgent Care says this season has been nonstop.
“This year we got more than the previous years since COVID, this is the highest number of flu cases we’ve seen,” said Dr. Bakale.
This trend can be seen across the country. CDC data shows a sea of red throughout the Midwest, including Missouri and Illinois, for influenza activity.
“Minimize your exposure to people who may be sick. People who have the flu are actually breathing out the virus for a full day before they have symptoms,” said Dr. Sarah George, a professor at Saint Louis University.
What’s causing it? First Alert 4 asked doctors and researchers, they can’t exactly pin down a reason but they do say Covid-era masking did help keep past flu seasons down.
“It can hit you very rapidly like a ton of bricks, you will suddenly feel weak all over, headache, achy, dry cough, sneezing, sore throat, usually not a wet cough,” said Dr. George.
Doctors say to get the flu shot. Early treatment for the flu is the best-case scenario, so visit a doctor within 48 hours if you’re experiencing any symptoms.
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