TN Seeing upswing in Flu

Feb 19, 2019 at 10:53 am by bryan


We may be just over midway through the month of February, but the flu season is still in its peak. According to a new report from the CDC, flu activity is down nationally, but we are seeing an uptick in Tennessee.

26 states, including Tennessee, are experiencing high flu activity. Despite a milder season this year, the CDC says flu activity this past week was the highest it has been all season.

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If you haven't gotten your flu shot yet, it's not too late. The CDC says this year's flu vaccine appears to be working. The vaccine has reduced the risk of going to the doctor for flu-related illness by 47 percent this season.

Other than getting the flu shot, health officials say make sure you're practicing good hygiene.

Flu season usually will last through March.

Flu Symptoms

Influenza (also known as flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by flu viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Flu is different from a cold. Flu usually comes on suddenly. People who are sick with flu often feel some or all of these symptoms:

• Fever* or feeling feverish/chills
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle or body aches
• Headaches
• Fatigue (tiredness)
• Some may have vomiting and diarrhea, though more common in children vs. adults
• It's important to note that not everyone with flu will have a fever.

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