Massachusetts Flu Cases On The Rise

BOSTON, MA — Massachusetts doctors and hospitals saw more visits from patients with influenza symptoms last week than they did during the same week in each of the past two years, according to a report released Friday by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.

All regions of the state were reporting high levels of influenza-like illnesses, with a 20 percent increase in positive laboratory tests over the previous weeks. The state has also seen a steady increase in the number of people being hospitalized with influenza in recent weeks.

The good news? All of the influenza strains found in Massachusetts so far this flu season are covered by the current influenza vaccine. So if you got your flu shot, you're better protected than those who didn't.

But that's about the end of the good news in the report. In each of the past two years, the number of flu cases, as well as hospitalizations, ramped up in January and peaked in February. In other words, it's likely to get worse before it gets better.

DPH recommends you take the following steps to avoid catching or spreading the flu:

• Get the flu shot if you haven't already. People who get the flu shot develop antibodies about two weeks after its administered, meaning you still have time to protect yourself against the expected peak in February.
• Wash your hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick or may be sick.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Take flu antiviral drugs if your doctor prescribes them.