Flu season is here, and Georgia is seeing high levels of flu cases, according to the Centers for Disease Control CDC. LaShonda Jones, a Nurse Practitioner at Phoebe Urgent Care, explains that the flu spreads easily through close contact with someone who has it or is contagious. She stresses that getting the flu vaccine is crucial in fighting the illness.
“The flu can actually be deadly, which many people don’t realize. Vaccination is very important because it can prevent the flu or at least make symptoms less severe,” Jones said.
The CDC reports about 3.1 million flu cases this season, with 1,500 deaths. While anyone can get the flu, children and people with weakened immune systems are more vulnerable.
There are two main types of flu viruses, Flu A and Flu B, which are similar to the common cold or COVID-19. Medications like Tamiflu, Relenza, Rapivab, and Xofluza can help treat the flu, especially if taken within the first 1-2 days of symptoms.
Jones also mentioned that some patients have tested positive for Flu A, but it’s possible to catch either type. The flu is viral, so close face-to-face contact, like talking with someone who has the flu, can spread it. To avoid getting sick, it’s important to keep a safe distance from others and avoid crowded places.
Phoebe Urgent Care provides flu vaccines for people of all ages and is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., and on weekends from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.