Flu activity increasing in most central Florida counties
The latest flu report from the Florida Department of Health shows that the flu positivity rate across the state is dropping. According to the health department, overall emergency room visits for the flu are going down too.
State data shows that in central Florida flu activity is trending down in Brevard and Osceola counties and staying the same in Orange County.
But in all other central Florida counties, the health department said flu activity is going up in Flagler, Volusia, Seminole, Lake, Marion and Sumter counties.
“We have probably a tough winter ahead of us from what I’m hearing from my colleagues,” said pediatrician Dr. Candice Jones.
Jones said she is seeing a lot of kids with cold-like symptoms in Orlando while the flu, respiratory syncytial virus and COVID-19 are all circulating.
“You really can’t tell. So my take-home message to my patients and everyone is if your child is sick and not feeling well, stay home,” she said. “Look at your child. If they’re happy, playful, drinking OK but just have stuffy nose or maybe a low-grade temp, just make them comfortable, give them fluids and keep them home.”
But Jones said if you see any worsening symptoms, get help.
“Trouble breathing or children who have fever for more than four or five days. Those are signs that it’s something more serious like a flu or a worst case of a flu,” she said.
This winter, Jones reminds folks that you still have the power of prevention.
“The message here is to get the flu vaccine,” she said. “That protection is more than nothing.”