Flu Cases Increase This Winter

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – Flu activity is rising this winter, with local hospitals reporting higher-than-normal infection rates. 

The Erlanger Center for Infectious Disease says influenza A, including H1N1, is spreading rapidly, and the facility has exceeded a 10% positivity threshold.

Symptoms of the flu can include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headache, and, in some children, diarrhea or vomiting. 

Residents are encouraged to get vaccinated, practice hand hygiene, cover coughs and sneezes, and stay home when feeling sick. Masks are being used in crowded spaces.

As flu cases rise, local workplaces are seeing more employees out sick. 

A survey from Lurie Children’s Hospital found that many parents still send children to school with mild symptoms, and one in three do not plan to get their child vaccinated this season. 

Children with severe symptoms, such as trouble breathing, eye swelling, or decreased responsiveness, should receive immediate medical care.

Taking precautions like vaccination and staying home when ill can help reduce the spread and protect families during the winter flu season.