Erlanger reports higher number of flu-like illnesses in first three weeks of season

hospital waiting room clinic health clinic tile / Getty Images
hospital waiting room clinic health clinic tile / Getty Images

Erlanger has reported over triple last year's amount of influenza-like illnesses (ILIs) during this year's first three weeks of flu season, according to a news release from Erlanger Health System.

The health care provider has reported 112 flu-like illnesses to the Hamilton County Health Department compared to 37 cases over the same period last year.

Dr. Steven Cooper, the medical director of Erlanger's Community Health Centers, says the higher rate is causing health care professionals to stress the importance of vaccination.

"Getting the vaccine is helpful, because it may reduce the severity or duration of flu symptoms as well as protecting vulnerable populations of the community who are at higher risk for serious illness such as young children, pregnant patients and the elderly," Cooper said in the release.

While most of the United States is currently experiencing minimal ILI activity, it's expected to increase in the coming weeks. The annual vaccine remains the best way to protect against the flu and its potentially serious complications, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

The CDC also recommends that everyone 6 months or older to get a flu vaccine by the end of October. If you do get sick, antiviral drugs are a treatment option, the CDC website states.

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