Press Release: Surge in Flu and Whooping Cough Cases in Arizona
Phoenix, AZ – Arizona is witnessing a concerning rise in cases of influenza and whooping cough, raising alarms among health officials. With flu-related fatalities exceeding 800 annually in the state, the early onset of flu season has caught many by surprise. Dr. Frank LoVecchio, an emergency physician at ValleyWise, noted a significant spike in flu cases, attributed to increased social gatherings in September. “We had a lot of people probably getting together in September and that led to a big jump in October,” he stated.
Individuals at higher risk, including the elderly, pregnant women, and those with diabetes, are urged to seek immediate medical care if flu symptoms develop. Timely intervention can significantly improve treatment outcomes. “There are some treatments we can give for the flu that work best if started early,” Dr. LoVecchio emphasized.
In addition to the flu increase, whooping cough, or pertussis, has also surged in the state, with over 560 cases reported this year—the highest since 2015. This highly contagious respiratory infection poses serious risks, particularly to young children, making vaccination and monitoring vital.
Health officials are encouraging residents to prioritize vaccinations, especially for at-risk populations, to mitigate the spread of these diseases. Public health campaigns aim to raise awareness about the importance of early detection and treatment, as well as vaccination against both influenza and whooping cough.
As Arizona braces for what could be an intense flu season, residents are reminded to stay vigilant and proactive in protecting themselves and their communities.
For further information on vaccines and preventive measures, residents can visit the Arizona Department of Health Services website.
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