As influenza grips the Sunshine State, health officials are on high alert. Florida has found itself among the 27 states grappling with "very high" flu activity, a pressing public health issue that could strain health systems and increase pressure on communities, according to the latest from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The flu spike, notably rampant in counties like Miami-Dade and Broward, is cause for concern across all demographics, "We are seeing many age groups, from pediatric cases to middle-aged to elderly," as Dr. Shimbul Meta, an emergency room physician at HCA University, told CBS Miami. Meta also noted a variety of symptoms, "Generally, we're seeing people complaining of headache, runny nose, sneezing. Sometimes they'll get nausea, diarrhea. Body aches are very common."

This uptick comes amid a broad increase in flu cases across the United States, with Florida's conditions echoing a national trend. As reported by The Beat Florida, 41 states are witnessing high to very high flu activity. A cumulative estimate by the CDC counts between 12 million to 22 million influenza illnesses, leading to as many as 340,000 hospitalizations and up to 32,000 deaths since the onset of the 2024-2025 flu season.

With the flu season in full swing, early treatment has been emphasized as a key defense. "Tamiflu is one option—it can reduce flu symptoms and shorten the duration of illness," stated Meta in conversation with CBS Miami. He also stressed that contracting the flu once doesn't mean you're off the hook; preventive measures like good hand hygiene, masking, and staying home when sick should still be observed. Health officials are also strongly advocating for the annual flu vaccine, especially for those aged 6 months and older, to minimize the risk of catching or spreading the virus.

It's a critical moment for Florida residents to heed the advice of health experts. Vigilance and prompt action when symptoms first surface could play a pivotal role in managing the flu's impact on individuals and health care systems. The CDC's call for attention to regional flu activity patterns suggests that the best course of action is staying informed and proactive.