As flu cases rise in Georgia, CDC reminds 'it's not too late' for annual shot

Caption

In this undated image, a patient receieves an influenza vaccine. The best way to prevent seasonal flu is to get vaccinated every year, according to the CDC .

Credit: CDC / James Gathany

The Atlanta-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates 1.9 million people have experienced flu-like illnesses so far this season, with 970 deaths and 23,000 hospitalizations nationwide.

Respiratory disease activity in Georgia currently includes COVID-19, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus or RSV, a highly contagious common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms.

Less than one-third of children and adults have been vaccinated against influenza, but vaccination is still recommended because flu season can peak as late as February, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

While Georgia has been experiencing a moderate flu season, cases have been rising steadily over the last few weeks.

The best disease prevention strategy is vaccination, Dr. Chris Parker, associate director for a field services with the CDC's National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, said, noting that it's a best practice to get both seasonal COVID and flu boosters at the same appointment.

Additionally, RSV vaccines are recommended for pregnant people, infants and those over age 60.

"RSV is the leading cause of infant hospitalizations in the U.S.," he said. "So, it's important that, as appropriate, those persons who are eligible and qualified should get the RSV vaccine."

Most people recover in a week or two, but RSV can be serious, especially for infants and older adults. RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lung) and pneumonia (infection of the lungs) in children younger than 1.

Parker said that, while flu vaccination may not prevent all flu illnesses, it will prevent more severe disease.