VA Flu Season Could Be Worse Than Past Years: State Health Department

VIRGINIA — This flu season could shape up to be worse than past years based on early signs, the Virginia Department of Health said Monday. Health officials are also raising concerns about the respiratory syncytial virus, commonly known as RSV and a respiratory illness that commonly spreads among kids during the winter.

Flu season typically starts as flu activity increases in October, peaking between December and February and continuing as late as May, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC noted the timing of flu activity has been less predictable during the COVID-19 pandemic.

But this year, the Virginia Department of Health noted more people have been seeking care for flu-like illnesses in urgent care centers and hospitals than past years in the early part of the flflu season. Health officials noted the trend has especially centered around children aged under 1 to 4 years old. The Virginia Department of Health is monitoring flu activity through a weekly report.

Common flu symptoms are fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches and fatigue. Vomiting and diarrhea are symptoms more common in children than adults. CDC says most people experience mild flu illness and should stay home and avoid contact with others. However, those who feel very sick or are at higher risk of complications can contact their health care provider and may seek influenza antiviral drugs.

Annual flu shots are recommended by state health officials for everyone 6 months or older (with rare exceptions) to fight influenza viruses. This season's flu vaccine targets influenza viruses research suggests will be most common, according to the state's health department. September and October are recommended as ideal times to get the flu shot, but health officials say flu shots are still beneficial in November or later.

"The best way to reduce the risk of flu and its potentially serious complications is to get vaccinated each year," said Virginia's State Health Commissioner Colin Greene in a statement. "This is why I am encouraging Virginians to receive their annual flu shot and practice preventive healthy habits.

CDC noted residents can safely get a COVID-19 vaccine and flu vaccine at the same time. Children 5 and older as well as adults can get the updated COVID-19 booster targeting the original virus strain and more common omicron subvariants.

Flu vaccines and COVID-19 vaccines are available throughout Virginia through providers like pharmacies and health department. To find vaccines near you, visit www.vaccinate.virginia.gov or www.vaccines.gov.

Other respiratory illnesses may spread during flu season, according to the CDC. Virginia's health department is also cautioning residents about the respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, a cold-like illness for most people which can be severe for young infants or immunocompromised people.

The Virginia Health Department has seen quadrupled emergency department and urgent care visits related to diagnosed RSV cases since September. Common symptoms include runny nose, decreased appetite, coughing, sneezing, fever and wheezing.

While there are no RSV vaccines yet, residents can take preventative measures similar to colds and other respiratory illnesses. The CDC recommends those with cold-like symptoms cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or upper shirt sleeve, wash hands often with soap and water, avoid close contact with others, and cleaning frequently touched surfaces.

In addition, people with cold-like symptoms should avoid contact with premature infants, children younger than 2 years of age with chronic lung or heart conditions, and children with weakened immune systems if possible or take preventative measures.