Before people make plans to gather with family and friends over the next few days, they want to make sure they are healthy.
The strain of Influenza A made its way to Erie County a few weeks ago and it is spreading.
Doctors at UPMC said they are seeing more cases of Influenza A and patients with respiratory issues.
Doctor Dave Hutzel with said he has been seeing three to four additional patients a day with head colds, chest colds, and bronchitis.
He said a head or chest cold can come on gradually and take a few weeks to go away.
But with the flu, it comes on fast and goes away within hours.
Dr. Hutzel said the flu is very contagious and can be fatal for people who may have underlying health issues.
Dr. Hutzel also said they have been seeing more cases of Covid as well and have been prescribing Paxlovid to treat symptoms.