Flu season has started, and cases are increasing across the country. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta has reported a big jump in lab tests and emergency room visits for flu symptoms.
Last week, thirteen states, including Georgia, reported high or very high levels of flu-like illness. This is nearly double the number from the previous week.
Channel 2 Action News spoke with Dr. Andi Shane from Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. She shared advice for parents on how to handle the flu season.
“Parents know their kids best. If your child is struggling to breathe, or can’t eat or drink, it’s a sign to seek medical help,” Dr. Shane said.
The CDC says it’s still too early to tell which flu strain is dominant or how well the flu vaccine will work this year. However, they recommend everyone aged six months and older get vaccinated.
Getting vaccinated is especially important for people at high risk of serious flu complications. You can also get the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as the flu shot.