JONESBORO, Ark. (KAIT) – Arkansas health officials reported 67 cases of lab-confirmed influenza in the week ending Nov. 8, with minimal flu-like activity statewide as the holiday season approaches.
The Arkansas Department of Health’s latest viral respiratory diseases report shows no outbreaks have been reported, but medical experts warn that could change soon.
Dr. William Palmer with the New York Institute of Technology at Arkansas State University said the current numbers are normal for this time of year.
“It is pretty normal for it to start picking up in the fall, and you’ll see that we start peaking more as we get closer to the holidays and into the new year,” Palmer said.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated 40 million people contracted the flu between 2023 and 2024. Around 470,000 of those cases resulted in hospitalizations.
Palmer said other respiratory illnesses also increase during this period.
“The common cold, you can also see during this time as well, those are our main respiratory illnesses. You can see RSV, also,” he said.
Colder temperatures can reduce the body’s ability to fight infections, making prevention crucial for protecting families during the holiday season.
Palmer said that vaccination remains the best protection against respiratory illnesses.
“Go ahead and get your immunizations, now is the time to start building up that resistance,” Palmer said. “Prevention would be first to protect your loved ones. Everyone should be getting flu shots. For other vaccinations, I would suggest for people to speak to their doctor to see if they meet criteria for those vaccinations to be appropriate.”
Good hygiene practices like frequent handwashing and proper cough etiquette can also help prevent the spread of illness.
Children and elderly people face the highest risk during flu season. Palmer urged people to stay home when sick to protect others.
“If you’re sick and you have fever, not feeling well, you should stay home and not spread it. We want to be around our loved ones, but if you’re not feeling well, then stay home,” he said.
Flu shots take about two weeks to become effective, meaning vaccination now could provide immunity during Christmas and beyond.
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