BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KERO) \u2014 Flu cases are on the rise across the country\u2014and Kern County is seeing the effects as well. <\/p>\n
Health officials say while local numbers remain slightly lower than last year, the trend is moving upward, prompting renewed concern as the season continues.<\/p>\n
Ramon Cisneros is among those affected. He recently visited the doctor after a spinal cord injury weakened his immune system, making him more vulnerable to the flu. <\/p>\n
Cisneros says his experience has changed his perspective.<\/p>\n
\u201cI recommend that people get the flu shot,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
According to Paul Rzucidlo with Kern County Public Health, about 18% of flu tests are currently coming back positive. <\/p>\n
While that\u2019s lower than last season at this time, the percentage has been steadily increasing.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019re trending under last season as far as testing positive,\u201d Rzucidlo explained. \u201cBut that number has been going up.\u201d<\/p>\n
Nationwide, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates at least 11 million flu illnesses so far this season, along with 120,000 hospitalizations and 5,000 deaths.<\/p>\n
Doctors in Kern County say they\u2019re already seeing the impact firsthand. Dr. Terrance McGill, founder of Maverick Medical, says respiratory illnesses in general are becoming more common.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019ve been seeing a lot of respiratory illnesses overall, but even more cases of influenza than last season,\u201d McGill said.<\/p>\n
With travel and close gatherings becoming more common, doctors emphasize prevention. Dr. McGill recommends simple but effective steps like wearing a mask in crowded spaces and washing hands regularly.<\/p>\n
\u201cI know people don\u2019t like to wear masks,\u201d he said, \u201cbut they\u2019re effective.\u201d<\/p>\n
Despite his illness, Cisneros says he\u2019s grateful for the care he\u2019s received.<\/p>\n
\u201cEvery question I have, they have an answer,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Health officials continue urging residents to get vaccinated and take precautions to help slow the spread and keep the community healthy.<\/p>\n
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