The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) has issued a strong advisory urging residents to take necessary precautions against influenza as the season progresses. Influenza activity in Alabama has spiked dramatically, with reported cases rising from just over 1% on December 6 to nearly 10% by December 27, 2023. This increase is significant, especially as the baseline for influenza-like activity is typically around 3%, according to ADPH data.
Rising Influenza Cases Demand Vigilance
Dr. Karen Landers, the chief medical officer for ADPH, highlighted the factors contributing to this surge. “People are gathering together, they’re indoors more, they’re traveling more, which means they may be coming from different parts of the state, different parts of the nation, and even different parts of the world,” she stated. This movement creates opportunities for respiratory viruses to spread more widely.
Officials remind the public that the influenza season in Alabama lasts until May. To mitigate the spread of the virus, ADPH strongly recommends annual influenza vaccinations for everyone aged six months and older. Additionally, other respiratory virus vaccines should be considered based on guidance from healthcare providers.
Preventative Measures to Protect Health
To further reduce the risk of transmission, ADPH encourages individuals to take several precautions. Staying home when sick is crucial, as is practicing good hygiene. Dr. Landers recommends covering coughs and sneezes with a sleeve or elbow, rather than hands. Frequent handwashing or utilizing hand sanitizer is also advised, alongside keeping hands away from the face.
For those who must venture out while feeling unwell, wearing a mask can help limit the spread of the virus. Vulnerable populations, including the elderly and individuals with chronic respiratory conditions, should be treated with particular caution, as they are at higher risk for severe illnesses.
“I strongly urge people to get the flu vaccine every year and other appropriate respiratory virus vaccines as recommended by their healthcare providers,” Dr. Landers emphasized, underlining the importance of vaccination in public health.
In cases of severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, immediate medical attention is essential. Symptoms of influenza may include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, and fatigue. In children, symptoms might also extend to vomiting or diarrhea.
For further information about vaccination locations and seasonal guidance, residents can contact their healthcare providers or the Alabama Department of Public Health directly.
