The Flu—What We’re Seeing and How You Can Help

Here is a quick look at what we're seeing for this year's influenza numbers and ways you can keep yourself and your community safe. 

What We're Seeing

• We experienced what appears to be a peak around Christmas. This peak is actually lower than flu spread we observed in previous years. 
  Note that the last week on the graph (Jan. 24) has incomplete data at the time this article was published and does not reflect final counts for the week.
• This year's strain has a new variant, subclade K, which is the main reported strain in the U.S.
• Our hospitals are busy, but the traffic is expected and manageable. 
• The primarily affected age group is young adults. 

"Although we may be seeing a decrease in the number of cases, there is the occasional flu season where there is a double peak, so it is still in everyone's best interest to get this year's flu vaccine." - Dr. Kerkering, Chief of Infectious Diseases for Carilion Clinic

Where to Go for Care

• It isn't too late to get your flu vaccine by stopping by Velocitycare or a Carilion Clinic retail pharmacy. 
• If you notice you have a cough or other flu symptoms, see your primary care physician. 
• If you have a history of heart disease or lung disease and notice trouble breathing, you should go to the emergency department. 

As always, do your part to stop the spread of germs by washing your hands and covering coughs and sneezes.