Flu rates remained elevated across the nation in early January, with more people being hospitalized for it as the new year begins.
With high activity levels of flu in Georgia this year compared to 2024-25, it’s very possible you might be exposed to someone who has the flu. Dr. Parissa Rabbanifard said there are steps a person who shares a home with someone who gets sick can take to try and stay well.
“I recommend limiting close contact – hugging, sharing food, sitting close – and trying to stay in separate rooms if possible,” said Dr. Rabbanifard, of Peachtree Dunwoody Medical Associates.
She also recommended wearing a mask if you’re trying to avoid flu but sharing a space with someone who’s sick.
“Household members should wash hands frequently and avoid touching your face,” she said. “Clean and disinfect daily, focusing on high-touch surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, phones, remotes, countertops and bathroom fixtures.”
Dr. Rabbanifard also suggested a person who’s been exposed to the flu reach out to his or her primary care provider to see if a prophylaxis with flu antivirals, such as Tamiflu, might be warranted.
Georgia experienced six flu-related deaths in the week ending Jan. 3, according to the state Department of Public Health. Forty-six people have died in the state during this flu season.
The state said there have been 416 hospitalizations for flu in the Atlanta area in the past week and more than 2,100 since early October.
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