Flu Cases Spike across southeastern Pennsylvania and nearby states as health officials urge residents to get vaccinated, warning the region is at or near peak flu season with infections still widespread.
Flu activity is rising sharply across the region, prompting public health officials to renew calls for vaccinations as winter illness strains households and clinics.
Residents in Havertown and surrounding communities report flu-like symptoms, while new data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows elevated activity across multiple states. Pennsylvania and Delaware are classified as “high,” while neighboring New Jersey is reporting “very high” flu levels.
Health officials say the Flu Cases Spike reflects seasonal trends but emphasize that preventive steps can still reduce illness and complications, particularly for older adults and those with underlying conditions.
CDC Data Shows Widespread Flu Activity
The CDC reports flu-like illness nationwide is at its highest levels for this season, with several Mid-Atlantic states experiencing intense transmission. Local health departments say the region is likely at or approaching its annual peak.
“We are probably around that peak period now,” said Gayle Mendoza of the Philadelphia Health Department. She said the virus is spreading broadly through communities, schools and workplaces, increasing exposure risk for unvaccinated residents.
Doctors say symptoms can include fever, congestion, fatigue and body aches, which may worsen quickly in vulnerable populations. Officials urge people with severe symptoms to seek medical care and to stay home when sick to prevent further spread.
Public health experts emphasize that flu patterns vary year to year, but vaccination remains the most reliable protection. Even when not fully preventing illness, the vaccine can reduce severity and the risk of hospitalization.
Health Officials Urge Vaccinations Despite Peak
Despite the season being well underway and Flu Cases Spike across the region, health officials say it is not too late to get a flu shot. Mendoza noted that immunity takes time to build, but late vaccination can still provide meaningful protection.
“It does take a few weeks for that flu vaccine to really ramp up and build up antibodies in a person’s system,” Mendoza said. “That’s why you should get it right now. Get it as soon as you can.”
She added that vaccination is especially important for seniors, young children and people with chronic health conditions, who face a higher risk of complications from the flu.
As Flu Cases Spike across the region, health departments continue to offer flu shots through clinics, pharmacies, and doctors’ offices. Officials also advise basic prevention steps such as frequent hand washing, covering coughs, and avoiding close contact with sick individuals.
Residents Weigh Risks as Symptoms Spread
As Flu Cases Spike, some residents say the surge has prompted them to reconsider vaccination. Mike Devlin of Havertown noted he has not yet received his flu shot and recently began feeling ill.
“Something caught me right now. Guess I should be a little concerned,” Devlin said while picking up medicine for sinus pressure and other symptoms. “I just want to get rid of it while I can.”
Devlin said he plans to get vaccinated at an upcoming doctor’s appointment, a decision Mendoza praised.
“Some protection is better than no protection,” she said.
Others said they took precautions earlier in the season. Mary Hogan of Upper Darby said she received both her flu and COVID-19 shots.
“I got my flu and my COVID because I’m a senior citizen,” Hogan said.
Health officials warn that as Flu Cases Spike, individual choices can have community‑wide effects by reducing the strain on hospitals and protecting those most at risk. With flu activity still high, they continue to urge residents not to delay vaccination or ignore early symptoms.
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