Alan Light / CC
Louisiana leads the nation in early-season flu activity, with a flu positivity rate exceeding 11-percent, far above the national average of 3.5-percent, according to the CDC. Ochsner Medical Center of New Orleans Director Sandra Kemmerly says cases this early are concerning.
“We clearly are leading the country in flu activity. We’re the highest state in the entire country which is alarming because we really haven’t had our winter yet.”
Louisiana’s mild winters facilitate virus spread, while health disparities and low vaccination rates worsen flu vulnerability. Kemmerly stress the importance of flu vaccination, as it remains the most effective tool to prevent severe illness and reduce strain on healthcare systems.
”The uptake and the acceptance of the influenza vaccination has been lower this year than prior years probably due to a multitude of reasons, but it’s still certainly not to late to get vaccinated.”
Kemmerly says to protect themselves and others, residents are urged to get vaccinated, practice good hygiene, stay home when sick, and safeguard vulnerable groups like children and older adults. Symp toms.
“The flu is early transmissible to others, and so in addition to the flu shot just being mindful that our actions can affect others.”
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