Flu Activity Widespread in Alabama
Rates of flu-like activity are on the rise throughout Alabama. They have been increasing for a few weeks now, and a number of schools have closed due to the virus. Recent state data shows “influenza-like illness” (ILI) is widespread. In Alabama, eight percent of people seeking medical care report symptoms. That rate is slightly higher in Jefferson County.
Monroe says they have seen a recent surge in the number of patients with flu at Children’s.
“Everyone seems to be getting the flu at the same time,” Dr. Kathy Monroe, medical director at Children’s of Alabama emergency department says. It is the same at UAB, according to officials there.
“We’re seeing an increase in activity now but it’s not out of the ordinary to see it this time of year,” says Stephanie Ayers-Millsapp, disease intervention program manager at the Jefferson County Department of Health. “Now I don’t know how much it will continue to increase.”
She encourages people to get the flu shot if they have not already, practice good hygiene and stay home when sick. As of now, the flu is not as severe as it was last season when Alabama declared a state of emergency in response to the outbreak.
According to the state Department of Public Health, this flu season hasn’t peaked yet. So far there have been at least 15 deaths related to influenza. The good news is that preliminary data from the CDC shows the current vaccine appears to be a good match for the viral strains going around this year.
Review by Senate Democrats finds more unreported luxury trips by Clarence Thomas
A report by Democrats on the Judiciary Committee found additional travel taken in 2021 by Thomas but not reported on his annual financial disclosure, including trips on private jets and a yacht trip.
Where did Barry Jenkins feel safe as a kid? Atop a tree
Director Barry Jenkins is best known for films like "Moonlight" and "If Beale Street Could Talk." On Wild Card, he opens up about where he felt the safest as a kid.
Israeli strikes across Gaza kill at least 20, including five children
Israeli strikes across the Gaza Strip overnight and into Sunday killed at least 20 people, including five children, Palestinian medical officials said.
I discovered one way to fight loneliness: The Germans call it a Stammtisch
Modern life can be lonely. Some are looking to an old German tradition – of drinking and conversation – to deepen connection through regular meetups.
This Christmas I’ll be grieving. Here’s how I’ll be finding joy.
Since her husband's death, newscaster Windsor Johnston has been looking for ways to recapture joy and continue her healing journey — one that's taken her to a place she'd never expected.
On tap for the holidays: A blend of multicultural drink traditions and fond memories
For this year's All Things Considered holiday cocktail interview, we visited Providencia in Washington, D.C., a bar that brings its owners' personal stories to life.
