LANSING, Mich. – January often ushers in a wave of illnesses, and health experts are urging people to discern what level of care they may need as flu cases surge across the state. Dr. Jason Vieder from Henry Ford Health has noted an alarming increase in flu cases, with Michigan now reaching the CDC’s highest category for flu-like illnesses. Test positivity rates have remained over 25% for several weeks, significantly exceeding what is typically seen during flu seasons.
Dr. Vieder commented on the prevalence of flu symptoms, saying that while these issues aren’t new, they are having a broader impact this year. He highlighted the challenge of recognizing when what seems like a standard cold could potentially escalate into something more severe.
Many residents, including Day Camacho from Lansing, are weighing their options when confronted with illness. “If it’s not life-threatening, you can battle it out at home, but if it’s something that involves wheezing, shortness of breath, or prolonged high fevers, you definitely need to see a doctor,” Camacho advised.
Dr. Vieder offered home care tips as a first line of defense, including the importance of rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications. He recommended options like Motrin, antihistamines such as Zyrtec or Claritin for congestion, and Flonase as a nasal spray, although he cautioned that many cough syrups may not be effective.
With flu, COVID-19, and RSV circulating simultaneously, maintaining good hygiene practices such as frequent hand-washing and staying home when feeling unwell is crucial to preventing the spread of these wintertime illnesses. Additionally, Dr. Vieder emphasized the need for patients to select medications that target their specific symptoms, particularly when treating children, to avoid inadvertently combining ingredients.
As the community navigates this challenging flu season, the focus remains on preventive care and informed decisions regarding health.