How Bad Will Flu Season Be In West Michigan?

Now that the Influenza season is coming to an end in Australia, doctors in West Michigan are saying a bad flu season could be heading our way.

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Medical officials in Australia have reported having the highest amount of influenza cases in many years. This information means that we're likely to experience the same thing here in West Michigan.

Doctors In West Michigan Are Expecting A Bad Flu Season

Dr. Andrew Jameson, the medical director for infection control with Trinity Health St. Mary’s told Wood TV that seeing what has happened in Australia could be a sign of things to come to America and right here in West Michigan.

• In the 2021 season (the Australian government flu network) peaked in mid-May with 598 total cases and no deaths.

• So far in the 2022 season, they've had 224,000 cases, 300 deaths, and 1,800 admissions to the hospital.

Who's Most At Risk This Flu Season?

Dr. Andrew Jameson said to Wood TV

“We have kids that are 1-year-olds, 2-year-olds, some even 3-year-olds who have never been exposed to influenza. Those are the kids who we worry about the most.”

 

What Can You Do To Prepare For Flu Season In West Michigan?

• Wear a mask, influenza numbers were lower during the pandemic and a big part of that is believed to be from the wearing of masks.

• Get a flu shot 

What Are Influenza Symptoms?

The Mayo Clinic says Influenza is a viral infection that attacks your respiratory system — your nose, throat, and lungs. Influenza is commonly called the flu, but it's not the same as stomach "flu" viruses that cause diarrhea and vomiting. For most people, the flu resolves on its own. But sometimes, influenza and its complications can be deadly.

People at higher risk of developing flu complications include:

• Young children under age 5, and especially those under 6 months
• Adults older than age 65
• Residents of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities
• Pregnant women and women up to two weeks after giving birth
• People with weakened immune systems
• Native Americans
• People who have chronic illnesses, such as asthma, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, and diabetes
• People who are very obese, with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher

via GIPHY

Flu season certainly sucks and so does winter in West Michigan.