KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Experts say peak flu time is between December and February. So as the colder months start moving into East Tennessee, people can expect to see more sneezes and sniffles.
The CDC released data placing Tennessee as "high" for its level of respiratory illness activity. However, Dr. Corinne Tandy said that as of Wednesday, East Tennessee is right on track with the number of respiratory illness cases in Knox County.
"The monitoring of flu activity throughout the country. It's pretty standard as we enter flu season and get through it," said Dr. Tandy. "And we are at the point in flu season where we start to see that kind of rapid increase in cases. And right now, we're where we expect to be. It's familiar. Again, you know, last year we had an unusual or rather early flu season, but we're kind of back in a familiar time. And so we're not seeing anything out of the ordinary at the moment."
Dr. Tandy says there are symptoms to look out for.
"Since they're primary respiratory viruses, you know — cough, sneeze, some of them have fever, some of them don't," said Dr. Tandy. "And so definitely, if you think you're feeling poorly, you have a cough, you've been sneezing more than usual, you're feeling tired. A lot of them sap your energy like that. So check in with your physician, if you're feeling poorly."
People who are at most risk for developing a serious case of illness are children, the elderly, and people who are immunocompromised.
And even if someone isn't a part of those groups, Dr. Tandy still recommends people to take precautions so they can lower the risk of getting themselves and others sick.
"Many of them are vaccine-preventable," said Dr. Tandy. "And so talking with your doctor about what vaccines you may be eligible for, and if that's the right call for you, is definitely something you can do to prevent getting those respiratory infections. But also, hand hygiene is a big deal in respiratory infections, making sure you're being very diligent about washing your hands, and staying home when you're sick. We're kind of past the primary allergy season now. So if you feel like maybe your allergies are taking a turn, consider that it might be a viral infection instead."
Other ways to stay healthy include not touching eyes, noses and mouths, as well as avoiding close contact with others and just simply staying home if you're not feeling well.
Dr. Tandy says the most important thing to do is just to be mindful of going around others and knowing someone could spread illnesses too.