(WDBJ) – Doctors at Cleveland Clinic are seeing higher than expected rates of influenza A this month, earlier than typically seen in the respiratory virus season.
Dr. Neha Vyas, a family medicine physician at Cleveland Clinic, said the rise is coming sooner than usual.
“The process is starting of seeing influenza positive,” Vyas said.
Respiratory viruses commonly begin appearing in the U.S. in October, but the season tends to peak between December and February.
National flu data
The CDC says seasonal flu activity nationwide remains low but is increasing. The latest data shows more than 33,500 specimens tested for flu, with a positivity rate of 3.4%.
“That said, we still see a consistent and steady rate of the enteroviruses and the rhinoviruses, which are present throughout the year, as well as COVID virus,” Vyas said.
Vaccination recommended now
Vyas said the best protection against severe disease from respiratory viruses like influenza is vaccination. She said since cases are already starting to climb, now is the best time to get immunized.
“The early factor does make us wonder what the rest of the season holds,” Vyas said.
Vyas said the early start does not necessarily mean the flu season will be longer or more severe, but said prevention is key, especially for young children, older adults and those with preexisting medical conditions, who are vulnerable to getting seriously ill.
“It’s important to vaccinate them as well as vaccinate yourself to protect our whole community,” Vyas said.
CDC recommendations
The CDC recommends everyone 6 months and older get a flu vaccine every season, with rare exceptions.
Experts say it is also important to reduce the spread of viruses by washing hands frequently with soap and water, or using an alcohol-based sanitizer if necessary. They also recommend staying home when sick, covering coughs and sneezes, and considering wearing a mask.
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