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As Americans return to work and school following the holiday season, health officials are expressing concern over a rising number of flu cases.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported an increase in influenza cases even before the holiday travel rush began, urging people to stay home if they are experiencing symptoms.
Aaron Bacalia, a physician assistant at Bronson Healthcare, noted a rise in positive flu cases in West Michigan over recent weeks.
“We’ve definitely seen a significant increase in our positive flu cases over the last couple of weeks,” Bacalia said.
Doctors have attributed the surge in part to a stronger and more contagious strain of influenza that’s circulating this season.
“From what I have personally been seeing, it’s leading to classic symptoms, those things being body ache, fatigue, congestion, fever,” Bacalia said.
“If you are someone who’s ill and you’re starting to feel worsening symptoms where maybe you feel short of breath or difficulty completing a conversation because you’re trying to catch your breath or something like that, absolutely get into one of the healthcare facilities.”
More than 7.5 million illnesses have been recorded this flu season, with 81,000 hospitalizations and 3,100 deaths, including at least eight children, according to the CDC.
The data shows only about 130 million flu vaccines have been administered in the United States, which is 13 million fewer than this time last year.
“Vaccines aren’t perfect, and you could potentially get flu even if you’ve been vaccinated,” Bacalia said. “What you’ll find is many cases will be a more diminished symptom profile, so you may decrease the risk of having to be, going into the emergency department or even being hospitalized.”
Bacalia advised the public to practice good hygiene, such as washing hands frequently, and to avoid gathering with others if they are sick to help curb the spread of the flu.
The CDC is expected to release updated flu numbers on Monday, which will include data from the week of Christmas. Health officials are preparing for a potential increase in cases as people return from holiday gatherings and resume their regular activities.