Flu Cases Rise Among Children In North Louisiana This Fall

The flu is popping up around north Louisiana, especially among children. Doctors are starting to see an increase in flu cases. The health experts are encouraging families to take all the necessary precautions to keep the flu from invading your home. One great way to do that is to get the flu vaccine. And it’s not too late.

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Flu Is Hitting Kids in Louisiana

Pediatricians say this year’s flu is hitting kids fast and hard, with many coming down with high fevers, sore throats, body aches, and coughs that seem to develop very quickly. We just bounced back from a cold wave and with that we will likely see an uptick in flu cases.

The latest Louisiana Department of Health data shows patients with flu-like symptoms account for 1.6% of emergency room visits in Louisiana. That is still below the numbers from the past few years. But the flu test positivity rate in Louisiana is at 3.4%.
But this fall season is not close to what we saw earlier in the year. Back in January, flu test positivity spiked at nearly 13%.

How to Keep the Flu Away? Get the Flu Shot Before the Holidays

Doctors are urging residents to get that flu vaccine as soon as possible. In fact, you should seriously consider getting the shot before Thanksgiving and all those family gatherings. That is a time that is typically a time when flu numbers spike because of so many outings with large groups.

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When Is the Flu Season in Louisiana

Seasonal flu in Louisiana typically runs from October through May, but we see the numbers jump between December and March. It is best to try to protect yourself now.