Flu cases spike across Alabama as doctors warn of aggressive new strain

DOTHAN, Ala. (WTVY) - Flu cases are spiking across Alabama following the death of an 11-year-old boy from the illness last week, prompting doctors to warn residents about an aggressive new strain spreading faster than previous versions.

Alabama Department of Public Health reports almost a 5% increase in flu diagnoses in the past week, and medical professionals expect that number to climb even higher.

Dr. Michael J. Ramsey at Dothan Pediatric Clinic said this year’s flu season presents unique challenges compared to previous years.

“This year, there’s been a little more of a change than in years past,” Dr. Ramsey said. “We are just now starting to see it. So we’re lagging parts of the state, but we won’t be spared from this. It’s going to come to us, and so we’re looking to have ours ramping up here over the next few weeks.”

Dr. Ramsey said this year’s virus, variant H3N2, also called Super K, spreads faster than past strains.

This season’s vaccine doesn’t perfectly match the new strain, but still protects against the illness, according to Dr. Ramsey.

He recommends getting the flu shot in September or October, but said it’s not too late for vaccination now.

Common symptoms include cough, fever, and vomiting, but the virus can be unpredictable.

Dr. Ramsey said parents should contact their health provider immediately if children show severe symptoms.

“So, if your child is acting extremely sick, difficult to wake up, having vomiting that’s difficult to control, or difficulty breathing, all those are signs that you need to contact your health provider right away.” Said Dr. Ramsey.

Prevention starts with basic hygiene practices, Dr. Ramsey said.

“Washing hands, not being in someone else’s face, covering your mouth when you’re coughing,” he said.

Without proper precautions, families face disrupted plans during the holiday season.

“Unfortunately, we see a lot of missed family reunions, missed dance recitals, missed basketball games because of the flu.” Dr. Ramsey said.

As holiday gatherings increase, case numbers will likely spike.

Dr. Ramsey expects a difficult period ahead.

“Since we’re just now starting to see it, we’re in for a rough January and February.” He said.

Dr. Ramsey said immunity takes up to two weeks to build after vaccination, making immediate action important before the expected January-February peak.

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