Flu Sweeps Through Alabama: Flu season is in full swing, and data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals a notable increase in respiratory illness across the country. The surveillance map, updated through the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, highlights elevated levels of seasonal influenza activity, particularly in the South Central, Southeast, Mountain, and West Coast regions.
Louisiana and South Carolina are experiencing the most severe flu activity, classified as “very high.” Following closely with “high” respiratory illness activity are Alabama, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, New Mexico, Puerto Rico, Tennessee, and Texas. New York City, reporting data separately from the rest of the state, also falls into the “high” category.
Virginia and Washington, D.C. did not provide sufficient data during the holiday week but had “moderate” levels of sickness the week before.
It’s essential to note that the CDC’s map relies on individuals reporting to healthcare facilities with flu symptoms, not confirmed cases, potentially including other respiratory illnesses like COVID-19 or RSV. The current flu season is expected to be within the typical range of severity, following a pattern similar to the previous year.
Flu shots are readily available in pharmacies and healthcare offices, and individuals can receive them alongside a COVID-19 booster for added protection.
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