Flu Cases Steadily Increasing in Parts of U.S.

The Health Department notes that the number of flu cases is gradually rising in parts of Kansas City, Tennessee, and Ohio, and has been steadily increasing in the past few weeks. Unfortunately, health officials warn that this may create a seasonal increase in the upcoming year. 

 "We're kind of mirroring last year, when the flu season peaked in mid-January," said Jeff Hershberger of the Kansas City Health Department, according to Kansas City Star.

The Health Department notes that the total number of reported cases increased from 75 during the Thanksgiving week to 264 on the week of Dec. 15.

"While the numbers still look pretty low," Hershberger added, "they're accelerating."

As the Flu vaccination takes around 10 days to take effect, those living in the West River region received warnings regarding the increased number of influenza cases.

"In the last two weeks down here at Falls, we've seen at least five or six people who have influenza-like illnesses who are probably positive for it. The flu shot is the number one way to prevent getting the flu bug this year," said Dr. Mark List at Falls Community Health, according to KSFY.

For Tennessee, it's estimated that 1,156 flu-associated hospitalizations have been confirmed since Oct. 1, according to the Tennessan. However, the CDC notes that as of last year, many of those cases were prevented with help from the influenza vaccination. Yet some are opting out of this year due to fear that the vaccination may increase their risk for contradicting the illness. Health officials note that this is simply not the case. 

Ohio has also fallen ill with 338 influenza-associated cases. 

Health officials stress the importance of proper vaccinations as well as catching symptoms earlier and seeking prompt medical attention. 

"I think the big thing to remember is that if you have signs and symptoms of influenza, so any rapid onset of high fever coughs things like that, that we really need those folks to practice good respiratory hygiene," said Sandy Frentz, Public Health Manager at Sioux Falls Health Department, according to KSFY. 

Have you been vaccinated?