Georgia Faces Rising Flu and RSV cases as Holidays Approach
ATLANTA – As Georgians prepare for holiday gatherings, both flu and RSV cases are increasing across the state, prompting health officials to urge preventative measures.Hospitalization rates for influenza have already surpassed those seen at the same point last year, and RSV positivity is climbing, raising concerns about a possibly challenging winter respiratory season.
The uptick in these viruses comes as people spend more time indoors and gather for celebrations, creating ideal conditions for transmission. While last year’s flu season in Georgia didn’t peak until late January and early February, reaching 13.4 hospitalizations per 100,000 people, current rates are already at 1.2 hospitalizations per 100,000 as of November 29, according to the CDC’s Flu View data. This translates to 194 flu-related hospitalizations and four deaths in Georgia since early October – significantly higher than the 75 hospitalizations reported during the same period last year. Simultaneously,RSV positivity rates have risen from 2.8% in early October to 14.4% in the last week of November, based on data from the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH).
What You Can Do to Protect Yourself and Others
Health experts recommend several steps to mitigate the spread of these viruses. Vaccination remains the most effective defense against the flu, and updated vaccines are available. While an RSV vaccine is newer, it is recommended for adults 60 years and older and for pregnant people to protect their babies. Beyond vaccination, practicing good hygiene is crucial. This includes frequent handwashing with soap and water, covering coughs and sneezes, and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces.
Individuals feeling unwell should stay home to avoid spreading illness to others. If you experience flu-like symptoms, such as fever, cough, sore throat, and body aches, or symptoms of RSV, like a runny nose, cough, and fever, consult a healthcare professional. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent severe complications.
For more information on flu and RSV activity in Georgia, residents can access state data at https://influenzareport.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/DPHFluReport_Week202548.html#outpatient-illness-surveillance and CDC fluview data at https://gis.cdc.gov/GRASP/Fluview/FluHospRates.html.Additional details on influenza outcomes can be found at https://influenzareport.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/DPHFluReport_Week202448.html#influenza-outcomes and other respiratory surveillance data at https://influenzareport.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/DPHFluReport_Week202448.html#other-respiratory-surveillance.
