Lee Health reports higher than normal number of flu cases for this time of year
Local health officials report they are seeing a higher number of flu cases for this time of the year than normal.
The influenza season begins each year in early October, bringing runny noses, coughs, congestion and other less-than-ideal symptoms. For some immune-compromised, it can be a more serious time of year.
Lee Health began collecting data Oct. 9, and that first week, there were 76 total cases between Acute Care Hospitals and Ambulatory records. Numbers began to rise in November, and by the week of the 20th, a total of 683 individuals were diagnosed with influenza locally.
“Locally, we are seeing an increase in cases earlier in the year,” said Dr. Mary Beth Saunders, Lee Health’s System Medical Director of Epidemiology. “Traditionally, our numbers rise after the Christmas holiday.
“It is not too late to get your influenza vaccine.”
Over the last two weeks, flu numbers have remained higher than usual for this time of year, with 1,305 total cases in that timespan according to Lee Health.
Saunders said the best way to prevent contracting the flu is to become vaccinated, wear a mask, wash your hands for 20 seconds with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand gel.
Lee Health officials said as Southwest Florida gets busier with seasonal residents returning to assess their homes and disaster recovery workers coming to our region to help with recovery efforts, it’s especially important this year to get a flu shot.
Lee Health recommends that everyone 6 months old and older get vaccinated each year for influenza. You can visit a Lee Health provider to receive your flu shot or a local pharmacy.
Please visit www.leehealth.org for additional information.
To reach CJ HADDAD, please email cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com