Flu activity remains high in Georgia as winter continues and health officials urge residents to take preventive measures to protect themselves and others.
Although many people experience mild symptoms, influenza is a contagious viral infection that affects the nose, throat and lungs and can lead to complications for sensitive groups, such as children and older adults.
According to Nancy Nydam, director of communications for the Georgia Department of Public Health, flu activity remains elevated across the state with reports coming in across different schools and hospitals.
“As of Feb. 6, seasonal influenza activity remains at high levels in Georgia,” Nydam said. “We have documented 124 influenza- associated deaths so far, with 80 percent occurring among those 65 years and older.”
Most flu cases this season have been caused by Influenza A (H3N2), a strain known to cause more severe illness in older adults. However, three pediatric deaths have been reported in Georgia so far this season, showing the importance of vaccination for children as well.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that the most effective way to prevent the flu is by receiving an annual flu vaccine. Flu shots are widely available at local clinics and pharmacies, including Baldwin Health Center, CVS and Walgreens locations.
“It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body, so now is the time to get a flu shot,” Nydam said. “Even if you get the flu, the vaccine can help prevent severe illness, hospitalization and death.”
Health officials also recommend washing hands frequently, covering coughs and sneezes and avoiding touching the face. Antiviral medications may be prescribed if taken within 48 hours of symptom onset.
Anyone who is sick is encouraged to stay home from school or work and to remain fever-free, without the use of fever-reducing medications, for at least 24 hours before returning.
Flu symptoms can include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. People at higher risk for complications include adults 65 and older, young children, pregnant women and those with chronic conditions such as asthma or heart disease.
By taking preventive steps and recognizing symptoms early, residents can help reduce the spread of flu and protect vulnerable members of the community.
If a resident gets the flu, the CDC recommends staying home and resting, limiting contact with others to avoid spreading the virus and taking antiviral medications if prescribed to help reduce the severity and duration of illness.
For more information and weekly flu surveillance reports, visit dph.georgia. gov/flu-activity-georgia.