Alabama is 1 of 7 states with highest flu numbers in the nation, according to CDC – NBC 15 WPMI

Alabama is 1 of 7 states with highest flu numbers in the nation, according to CDC

by Karris Harmon

Alabama among seven states leading the nation in flu-like illness rates (CDC)

MOBILE, Ala. (WPMI)

Flu cases are up in Alabama.

"We have continued to see week over week increases for this season," says Dr. Wes Stubblefield with the Alabama Department of Public Health.

According to the CDC, states in the southeast region of the country are leading the nation in flu cases, including Alabama. Locally, Dr. Marsha Raulerson says she's seen a high volume of people coming into her practice with the flu. She says shes seen mostly Flu A.

"There's different strains of the flu, says Dr. Raulerson. So, if you develop some antibodies against Flu A, you don't against Flu B. So if you get Flu A, you still need to get a flu shot, because that will protect you against Flu B."

Dr. Stubblefield says historically, the flu peaks around January 1st.

"This is just expected for this time of year, it's something that circulates around this time in Alabama, says Dr. Stubblefield. "The last few seasons were a little off because of covid 19 and masking, but we're getting back more in traditional pattern at this point."

The CDC says the number of flu vaccines are down, with an 11% drop at pharmacies and a 17.9% drop at doctors offices.

"Some people may get less severe flu if they get it or not get it at all if they have the vaccine so, definitely can lead to higher case numbers with lower vaccinations rates," says Dr. Stubblefield.

Dr. Raulerson says the spike after the holiday season doesn't come as a surprise after many people were in close contact with one another.

"We are more out in crowds and going out," says Dr. Raulerson.

Dr. Stubblefield says don't underestimate the flu.

"It's still a very serious virus, says Dr. Stubblefield. Although for most healthy people it causes a miserable illness, but for certain individuals it can cause a very deadly illness."

He says the people with the highest risk for deadly influenza are the elderly and very young people, people who are pregnant, and people who have underlying health issues.

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Alabama is 1 of 7 states with highest flu numbers in the nation, according to CDC - NBC 15 WPMI