Flu Season Winds Down in Pine Belt
3/26/2018
Hattiesburg – According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this year’s flu season has passed its peak, and is in a steady decline – finally, after one of the worst flu seasons of the past decade.
"We’re confident that the worst of a tough flu season is over and we encourage patients who may have put off care to make sure they get back on track,” said Daniel Crane, M.D., medical director of the emergency department.
According to the Mississippi State Department of Health, in the Pine Belt the flu rate has been falling over the past few weeks. The consistent decline in cases follows a season where influenza impacted local schools, workplaces and hospital emergency rooms.
Flu season can also cause some people – especially the elderly – to postpone care for chronic or elective health issues, either due to cases of the flu itself, or out of a fear of contact with flu in public spaces.
"Taking precautions is the best possible way to avoid catching any virus, but no one should put off important care of chronic conditions, or allow an emerging condition to worsen by waiting out the flu season. Healthcare facilities take aggressive measures to prevent the spread of viruses – likely more so than any other public space,” said Crane.
This year’s flu season was a good reminder of the importance of getting vaccinated, and building immunity early and over time. According to the CDC, it’s not too late to get your flu shot this year. If you need a flu shot, or assistance with a plan for building your general health and immune system, call your primary care physician and develop a personal and comprehensive wellness plan that will support you throughout the year. If you need a primary care physician, visit WesleyPrimaryCare.com for help finding a physician.
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