The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that flu cases in Georgia have reached “high” levels, with the Atlanta-based agency tracking 15 states experiencing similar outbreaks. According to nurse practitioner Shanay Smith at VitalCare Express, an urgent care clinic in Roswell, many patients are mistakenly diagnosed with COVID-19 only to test positive for influenza.
As of Week 50, which ended on December 14, Georgia was among the states with high flu levels. Smith notes that her clinic has seen a significant increase in confirmed cases of Flu A and Flu B. The CDC reports low levels of COVID nationwide, down from a summer surge.
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta also reports higher cases of respiratory illnesses, citing increased emergency department volumes. The hospital advises vaccination, staying home when sick, and washing hands to limit the spread of flu. With the holidays approaching, they expect an increase in hospital visits due to family gatherings.
To help parents navigate pediatric care for respiratory illness, Children’s provided a chart outlining when to call a pediatrician, visit an urgent care center, or go straight to the emergency department.
Source: https://www.atlantanewsfirst.com/2024/12/25/coughing-hacking-its-just-spreading-flu-cases-surge-high-levels-across-georgia