Flu still hitting Shore hard

Health officials here on the Eastern Shore are ringing the alarm this week as flu cases skyrocket from low to high activity almost overnight.

According to information from the VDH website, most of the local cases are coming back as Influenza-A, and the surge is already impacting our medical centers. As of January second, some Shore medical centers have brought back masking mandates to protect patients and staff. While COVID-19 levels are remaining stable for now, doctors say the flu is hitting hard and fast. 

If you’re feeling run down with a fever or cough, health officials say don’t wait to call your doctor. Antiviral treatments work best within the first two days of feeling sick. You can still find the updated 2025–2026 flu and COVID shots by contacting the Accomack and Northampton County Health Departments,  any Eastern Shore Rural Health Facility and most local drug stores.

Until things calm down, remember the basics: wash your hands, cover your cough, and if you’re sick, please stay home