Flu activity is currently widespread and severe in Georgia, with health officials warning that cases are likely to rise after the holidays as people return to work and school. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has also projected a severe flu season.
The Georgia Department of Public Health is urging residents who have not yet received a flu shot and have no medical conditions preventing vaccination to do so as soon as possible. According to the CDC, everyone over six months old should get a yearly flu vaccine, not only for their own protection but also to safeguard vulnerable individuals such as the elderly and those with weakened immune systems. The vaccine takes about two weeks to become effective.
“Even if you get the flu, the vaccine can help prevent severe illness, hospitalization, and, in extreme cases, death,” states the department. Individuals with questions about the flu shot are encouraged to consult healthcare professionals.
Flu vaccines are available at various locations including public health departments, doctors’ offices, grocery stores, clinics, and pharmacies across Georgia.
Symptoms of the flu can vary in severity but commonly include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue. Those at higher risk for serious complications include people 65 years and older; individuals with chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease; pregnant women; and children under five years old—especially those younger than two.
In some instances, healthcare providers may prescribe antiviral drugs to treat the flu. These medications are most effective when taken within 48 hours of symptom onset.
For more information about flu prevention and updates on influenza activity in Georgia, residents can visit dph.ga.gov/flu or monitor weekly influenza reports at dph.georgia.gov/flu-activity-georgia. Reports are updated every Friday.
