Flu season is hitting Missouri hard this year, with officials from the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) reporting concerning upticks in cases across the state. According to data posted on the Missouri Influenza Surveillance Dashboard, there have been 9,255 lab-confirmed cases of the flu and a staggering 558 hospitalizations. With flu activity usually peaking during the winter, these numbers are already alarming, and the season is far from over.
The increase in flu cases saw emergency department visits for influenza-like illness and positive lab tests soaring above baseline in the early December. In response, health officials are beating the drum on prevention and vaccination. “Flu is more than just a seasonal inconvenience—it can lead to serious health outcomes, especially in vulnerable populations,” Dr. George Turabelidze, state epidemiologist, emphasized. The best defense against the flu, as per Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, is to get vaccinated annually, and it’s particularly important for high-risk groups which includes seniors, children and those with chronic health conditions.
Aside from vaccination, DHSS is promoting additional protective measures. These include frequent hand washing with soap and water or using an alcohol-based sanitizer, covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow, avoiding close contact with those who are sick, and staying home when ill. A critical, yet often overlooked preventive measure is to keep from touching your face, as this can spread germs more easily.
Keeping a clean environment is important. Regularly sanitizing frequently touched surfaces can help reduce the spread of the flu virus. Missouri’s Influenza Dashboard provides weekly updates on flu activity, including local data and trends, to help the public stay informed.
