Flu cases rising on Shore

Health officials say flu activity on Virginia’s Eastern Shore has increased sharply over the past two weeks, disrupting some holiday plans and prompting renewed calls for prevention measures.

Eastern Shore District Supervisor Jon Richardson said flu cases have risen locally and statewide, a pattern he noted is typical for this time of year. Richardson said recent testing shows most positive cases on the Shore are influenza A, and both flu-related illnesses and emergency department visits are trending upward. He added that the region’s respiratory illness activity level has moved from “low” to “high” in just the past week.

Richardson said the increase has been felt even within his own household and among staff at the local health department, several of whom have been out sick over the past two weeks. He encouraged residents to take precautions, including getting the annual flu vaccine after consulting with a medical provider, practicing good hand hygiene, covering coughs, cleaning frequently touched surfaces, and avoiding close contact with others when sick. He also advised people at higher risk for flu-related complications to contact a medical provider early, as antiviral medications may be appropriate.

According to the Virginia Department of Health, COVID-19 case levels across the Commonwealth have remained relatively stable as flu activity continues to rise. Health officials say staying informed and taking basic preventive steps can help reduce the spread of seasonal illness on the Eastern Shore.