Flu cases on the rise in U.S.

MONTGOMERY, AL (WSFA) - Flu cases are spreading fast across the United States.

In a new study released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, flu activity is up in several states, and Alabama is one of them.

“I have seen two or three cases a day," Dr. Kidd, with American Family Care in EastChase, said.

Alabama, Colorado, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, New Jersey, New Mexico and South Carolina all have elevated flu numbers.

The Alabama Department of Public Health ranked Alabama’s flu activity as “regional.” That’s one step below the worst category of “widespread.”

With that much activity already, doctors are worried that this flu season could get much worse.

“I do think that flu season will pick up more. I’m definitely worried about it hitting hard at some point," Kidd said.

According to the CDC, there have already been eleven flu-related deaths in children across the United States.

With New Year’s Eve right around the corner, doctors want to make sure you take extra precautions before heading out to celebrate.

“When you’re out in a big crowd for New Years make sure to wash your hands often, keep your germs to yourself and cough into your elbow," Kidd said.

Kidd said that the best flu preventative method for those six months and older is the flu vaccine. Even though the vaccine isn’t foolproof, it can help lessen your symptoms if you do get sick.

Other ways to try to prevent the flu are washing your hands, and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

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