Three weeks into this year’s flu season, Erlanger Health System has reported 112 influenza-like illness cases to the Hamilton County Health Department, compared to only 37 cases over the same period last year.
“Based on the number of reportable cases at this point in the flu season, we continue to stress the importance of area residents getting vaccinated as soon as possible,” said Dr. Steven Cooper, medical director of Erlanger’s Community Health Centers. “Getting the vaccine is helpful, because it may reduce the severity or duration of flu symptoms as well as protecting vulnerable populations of the community who are at higher risk for serious illness such as young children, pregnant patients and the elderly.”
According to the CDC, most of the United States is currently experiencing minimal ILI activity. Flu activity is expected to increase in the coming weeks. The annual flu vaccine is the best way to protect against influenza and its potentially serious complications. The CDC recommends everyone 6 months or older to get a flu vaccine by the end of October. Flu antiviral drugs are prescription medications that can be used to treat flu illness, and they work best when used within two days of getting sick.