Recent reports show Greene County flu cases spike in January

(WCAX)
Published: Jan. 24, 2019 at 2:33 AM CST
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The Centers for Disease Control says this flu season isn't as bad as some we've seen recently...but it doesn't mean we're in the clear.

Kaitlyn McConnell, spokesperson for Cox Health said, "It's around this time of year that we actually start doing the flu test more often, and that can change the number of flu cases we're seeing."

So far, almost eight thousand lab confirmed cases of the flu have been reported in Missouri. In Greene County, the most recent reports show 362 confirmed flu cases with 267 of those reported in the past month.

Five people have died across the state related to the flu. And, the CDC says over the last two weeks, flu activity nationwide is on the rise.

But the experts say it's not too late to act on something that can go a long way when it comes to avoiding this contagious virus.

"The flu vaccine is always good to get every season," McConnell said. "And, you don't even need an appointment at a lot of places to get the flu vaccine."

The experts also say acting early when you notice symptoms is important, especially when it comes to the people that are most susceptible: kids and older adults.

Springfield Public Schools Director of Health Services, Jean Grabeel said, "Make sure that you're observing what's going on with them. The flu is a sudden onset. So if they suddenly feel ill... they were fine, and now they"re laying around and not wanting to play, their temperature is going up, monitor that closely, and then if it doesn't pass in a few days, then they need to be talking to the provider."

Experts say, if you do get sick, it's the advice you probably hear the most that is the most effective in preventing it spreading to others.

"Coughing in your sleeve, washing your hands frequently, and then if your child's ill, keep them home until they're well."