Flu cases spreading rapidly in Massachusetts – WWLP.com

WEST SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) Massachusetts continues to see high numbers of the flu.

According to the CDC, the state is currently seeing high levels of the virus. There have been 11 flu deaths reported in the state over the past week, 113 total for the season.

If you are infected, health officials recommend getting plenty of rest, drink plenty of water, and take over-the-counter medications to reduce symptoms. Doctors say in some cases prescription antiviral medications may also help.

The first line of defense against the flu is to get vaccinated, said Dr. Andrew Koslow, associate medical director of AFC for Massachusetts. Antiviral medications are a second linewhen the vaccine doesnt prevent infection, or someone didnt receive the vaccine. Antiviral medications are mostly used for severe cases of the flu or patients who are considered at high risk for flu-related complications.

22News spoke with people about how theyre protecting themselves. Now and then I will walk around with a mask on. If I do get in crowded spaces I will wear it and Ive gotten two shots, well the flu shot and the one for Covid, Ive gotten them, so Im doing pretty good, said David Whalen of West Springfield.

Dr. Koslow says you can reduce the spread of infections by doing the following:

According to the CDC, there has been at least 24 million flu illnesses, with more than 260,000 hospitalizations so far this season.

Kayleigh Thomas is a digital reporter who has been a part of the22Newsteam since 2022. Follow Kayleigh on X@kayleighcthomasand view herbioto see more of her work.

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Flu cases spreading rapidly in Massachusetts - WWLP.com