Flu reports rising in Duval County

If you’re feeling a sore throat, fever or runny nose- consider taking a sick day.

Duval County Health Department Surveillance Epidemiologist Karen Elliott tells WOKV there is a moderate level of flu in the county right now, with a noticeable rise from the first to second week of the year.

The reports are coming from emergency rooms and labs, so it’s not the most comprehensive look- but a gauge the health department uses every year to keep track.  She says it’s difficult to compare this flu season so far with the last, because it’s so early in the season.

“We may have just peeked earlier this year than we would normally have, so it may start to go down now,” Elliott says.

But to make sure the problem doesn’t continue to get worse, they’re really focusing now on prevention.  She says it’s not too late to get a flu shot.

“That’s our best way, our best tool, to protest against the flu,” she says.

People who are over the age of 65, under 5, pregnant or have an underlying illness are at a higher risk of developing complications. Elliott says they should consider seeing a doctor.  Otherwise, she says you should stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever breaks to prevent spreading the virus.