Flu cases tick up in Missouri, Kansas
The CDC announced flu season has started
The CDC announced flu season has started
The CDC announced flu season has started
Flu season has arrived.
This week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced that they're seeing an uptick in cases.
"We have seen an increase in the past week and it's been noticeable.” Dr. Barbara Pahud, who handles pediatric infectious diseases at Children’s Mercy Hospital, said.
This time of year can be especially bad.
"Usually, we will see a lot more flu activity because a lot more people are traveling, touching airports, touching doors, visiting families, staying in close proximity to each other and it's easier for the flu to pass among family members,” Pahud said.
The flu shot prevents getting the virus but doesn’t act as a cure, so getting it as soon as possible is a priority.
"My daughter gets her flu shot by Halloween, but if you have not received it by now, Christmas, it's still time to get it because you'd rather get the shot late and get protection than not get it all,” Pahud said.
Missouri saw 459 new cases in the week of Dec. 9-15.
Anyone with the flu is asked to stay away from people and not try to tough it out.
"Please stay home,’ Pahud said. “Don't go to work and try to keep yourself from infecting others."
Pahud said it's a common misconception that the flu vaccine can cause the flu. She says that's impossible.
The CDC reports Missouri is seeing moderate flu activity. Kansas has had a minimal number of cases.