Last year we heard a lot about the flu.
That's because the number of flu cases were high early on. However, this flu season seems to have kicked off late and cases are just starting to increase now.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), flu is now widespread in five states, including Georgia.
Find out what's happening in Stone Mountain-Lithoniawith free, real-time updates from Patch.
The CDC says the proportion of deaths attributed to pneumonia and influenza is now "at the epidemic threshold". Officials say that 18 of the 54 areas are now reporting regional or widespread activity.
As of last week, the CDC reports five states with widespread flu activity. Those states are Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, New York, and Virginia. All other states are reporting some kind of activity ranging from regional to marginal.
Find out what's happening in Stone Mountain-Lithoniawith free, real-time updates from Patch.
DeKalb Medical is reminding people of these steps to help prevent the flu. Infectious Disease Specialist and Chief of Staff, Dr. Rob Dretler explains on DeKalb Medical's website, the three important steps to take in preventing the flu.
1. Get a flu shot. Everyone over six months of age should get a flu shot. It is especially recommended for people who are immune suppressed, who have asthma or who are pregnant.
2. See a doctor if you're sick. If you do get sick see a doctor right away, as flu medications only work within the first 48 hours of the first symptoms.
3. Cough and sneeze in your elbow. Make sure to cover your cough or sneeze and wash your hands, so as not to spread germs to others. Stay home if you can.
Dr. Dretler says it's a myth that the flu shot can give you the flu. He says the vaccine takes ten days to take effect and with the virus so active, there are times when someone will catch the flu, before his or her flu shot has kicked in.
Flu shots are available at DeKalb Medical for everyone over the age of six months. Dr. Dretler says they even have influenza vaccines available in syringes with smaller needles, for a less painful injection.
For more information call DeKalb Medical at 404.501.1000.
What kind of flu activity are you seeing in your school? Use this space to let us know and well help spread the word.