After a reported uptick in flu, COVID-19 and other illnesses in the city, the Alexandria Health Department is recommending the flu shot and and other preventative measures to stay healthy.
Flu-related emergency department visits more than tripled in Alexandria during the last two weeks of December, according to data from the Virginia Department of Health. Alexandria’s current flu vaccination rate is low, sitting at less than 30% of the population, AHD spokesperson Eve Elliott told ALXnow.
“People who are unvaccinated are more likely to get very sick if they get the flu compared to vaccinated people,” Elliott said.
The recent outbreak is in-part due to subclade K, a flu strain that was not around as this year’s seasonal flu shot was developed. Still, AHD recommends the shot as it can help protect against severe illness.
The city also advises residents to follow these measures to prevent the spread of germs.
- Regularly wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds or use alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
- Cover your coughs and sneezes with your inner elbow (not your hands).
- Wear a mask to prevent the spread of germs.
- Clean high-touch surfaces like doorknobs.
- Stay home if you’re feeling sick. Stay home until you feel better and have been fever-free for 24 hours.
- Turn on exhaust fans to circulate fresh air or use an air purifier if you have one.
“One extra tip is for parents of little ones to check in on their little ones’ healthy habits,” Elliott said. “Make sure they know how to properly wash their hands and sneeze into elbows. The whole family is safer when we all know healthy habits.”
Reported flu cases rose as COVID-19 cases experienced a slight uptick in addition to other illnesses, something Elliott said is “not unusual” in the wintertime as people gather indoors and exchange germs.
While COVID-19 cases are up, more severe illnesses are attributed to the flu.
Flu and COVID-19 shots are available at pharmacies and primary care providers across the city, many of which also offer a one-time RSV shot for older adults and high-risk patients.
AHD also offers flu and COVID-19 vaccinations at a sliding scale fee for people without insurance. Appointments can be booked by calling 703-746-4888.
