Flu Rates Surge in Alabama

Recent weeks have seen a dramatic increase in flu cases across Alabama, prompting a surge in emergency room visits, according to public health officials.

Dr. Wes Stubblefield, a medical officer with the Alabama Department of Public Health, confirmed that flu diagnoses are rising swiftly. "We know people are being diagnosed with flu. It’s present in every public health district in Alabama right now," he said.

As of December 21, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) categorized Alabama’s flu levels as “very high.” The Alabama Department of Public Health's respiratory illness dashboard revealed that over 6% of emergency room visits were related to flu symptoms last week, a significant jump compared to earlier in the season.

Dr. Scott Harris, the state health officer, expressed earlier that he anticipated a “normal” flu season this winter, which he defined as around 3% of total ER visits being flu-related. However, these numbers have quickly escalated. “Emergency department percentages have risen from less than 1% to around 6-7% in just a few weeks,” Stubblefield reported.

Authorities anticipate continued increases in flu cases, as they historically peak in early January. “In previous years, we’ve seen this pattern,” Stubblefield said, while acknowledging that the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted typical trends. “We’re uncertain when these numbers will start to decline.”

To combat the spread of the flu, Stubblefield emphasizes vaccinations. "Getting vaccinated is one of the best defenses against the flu," he advised. Individuals who have received the vaccine are not only less likely to contract the flu but also experience less severe illness if they do. “Severe flu cases lead to hospitalization, and that’s what concerns us the most,” he added.

Even those who already have the flu can still receive the vaccine, although it typically requires a couple of weeks to become effective.

Beyond vaccination, Stubblefield urges residents to adopt preventive measures, especially during the heightened flu season. "We need to protect those at highest risk. If you're sick, it’s vital to stay home. Children with flu should not attend school, and we should limit contact with vulnerable populations, such as the elderly or those in nursing homes."

Stubblefield also advocates for strong respiratory hygiene practices, encouraging individuals to cough into their elbows, maintain hand hygiene, and ensure good ventilation in indoor spaces. Moreover, he emphasizes the importance of overall health through sufficient sleep, stress management, and a balanced diet.

With flu activity escalating, Alabama's public health officials are on high alert, urging residents to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions. As we head into the new year, the emphasis on health and safety remains crucial in navigating this flu season successfully.