Flu Activity on the Rise in Tennessee
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn — Health officials in Tennessee have reported a significant increase in flu activity around Chattanooga, particularly in counties surrounding Hamilton, which are seeing some of the highest rates in the state.
The counties of Marion, Grundy, Sequatchie, Bradley, Meigs, Rhea, Bledsoe, McMinn, and Polk are currently classified as “very high” for influenza activity by health authorities. These areas have flu positivity rates exceeding 10 percent. In contrast, the statewide average stands at 6.5 percent, while Hamilton County is slightly higher at 6.9 percent.
Symptoms of the flu typically include fever, body aches, coughing, and fatigue. Mark Harrison, a resident of Hamilton County, shared his experience from December when he was diagnosed with the flu. “I began to lose my ability to focus and engage in conversation,” he recounted. “The fact that I got it at all makes it feel worse than usual,” he added, reflecting on the situation.
Experts from both state and federal health organizations attribute the surge to the widespread circulation of influenza A(H3N2). Dr. Chirag Patel, a pharmacist at Max Discount Pharmacy on Highway 58, noted that local pharmacies and clinics are witnessing a clear uptick in cases. He remarked, “We didn’t see as many flu cases last year or the year before. This year, we started early, around October, November, and it’s still ongoing. That’s a bit of a red flag right there.”
Patel emphasized the importance of early detection for better recovery outcomes. “The first 48 hours after the onset of symptoms is really critical,” he explained.
The CDC has reported at least 11 million flu illnesses, 120,000 hospitalizations, and 5,000 deaths nationwide this season. Recently, one pediatric death was confirmed in Tennessee, raising the total to nine deaths across the country this season.
In Georgia, officials are also noting higher-than-average flu activity, suggesting that the region is in the midst of a particularly intense flu season. Health authorities recommend that residents aged six months and older get vaccinated if they haven’t already and to take preventive measures like frequent handwashing and staying home when feeling unwell.
According to the CDC, flu activity is expected to stay elevated in Tennessee and across the U.S. for the next few weeks. Local hospitals and clinics are advising families to monitor symptoms closely and seek medical attention early, especially for children, older adults, and those with chronic health issues.
For up-to-date information on flu vaccinations and antiviral treatments, you can visit the Tennessee Department of Health or the CDC.
