Syracuse (WSYR-TV) -- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says 47 states are reporting widespread flu. This year’s active strain is H3N2 and the symptoms could make you sicker for longer than a normal strain.
The flu is a potentially deadly illness that knows no bounds. Day after day new numbers are released about the rampant spread of the flu and doctors here in Central New York say we’re one of the hardest hit areas in New York State.
“Last year, Crouse had about 15 people admitted for influenza and during the whole season this year we’re already almost up to 100,” said Dr. Richard Steinmann.
And it appears it’s not letting up in Central New York. Emergency rooms are swamped with patients and some are seeing more than a dozens case a day.
Doctors say flu season started a little earlier this year, which means many people weren't vaccinated and since the strain was so aggressive that it spread like wildfire.
Doctors at Upstate say they’ve seen 130 cases in the past four weeks.
“Just a tremendous increase, a very early flu season, a very active flu season and it’s hard to know when it’s going to peak and start to tail off,” said Dr. K. Bruce Simmons with Upstate.
The best thing to do is get vaccinated.
“If you get a shot today, in about two weeks you’ll have a substantial amount of immunity in about four weeks it will peak, the immunity will peak and you’ll really be protected,” Dr. Simmons continued.
If you still haven’t gotten your flu shot and need help finding a clinic or pharmacy near you,
CLICK HERE.
