March 29, 2024
Annapolis, US 52 F

Flu at Highest Severity Level in Maryland

evolve medical clinics urgent care primary care flu season peak
evolve medical clinics urgent care primary care flu season peak
Flu in Maryland has hit the highest severity level

 

Flu at Highest Severity Level in Maryland

Influenza, or flu, in Maryland is at the highest severity level and is wide spread according to the Maryland Department of Health‘s weekly influenza report. In fact, the CDC reports that Maryland has 1 of the highest severity ratings for flu right now (top 8 of 50 states). The CDC also reports that over 1,600 have been hospitalized this flu season, with ages over 65 or under 4 years at highest risk with 1-2 deaths per week in the last 3 weeks. 

flu activity evolve medical clinics primary care and urgent care

The flu vaccine has been 60% effective this year which is good.  Getting a flu vaccine reduced the risk of having to go to the doctor because of flu by nearly 60% according to Joseph Bresee, M.D. of the CDC. Dr Bresee declares, “It’s good news,” and means it is important to get your flu shot this year. For those in Maryland and the other 7 high severity states, it is not too late. Go to your local pharmacy or schedule a visit with your local urgent care such as Evolve. 

Symptoms of Flu

Symptoms start fairly suddenly and often include:

  • High fever–as high as 104°F, which can reach 106°F (41°C)  
  • Whole body aches and pains
  • Headache
  • Pain when you move your eyes.
  • Fatigue, a general feeling of sickness (malaise)
  • Loss of appetite.
  • A dry cough
  • Runny nose
  • Dry or sore throat. 

Influenza usually does not cause symptoms in the stomach or intestines, such as vomiting and diarrhea.

Call your doctor or go to an Urgent Care if:

  • You have an extremely high fever (104 F or higher)
  • You are finding it more difficult to get a good breath
  • Wheezing
  • New symptoms localized to the ear, throat, chest or sinuses
  • Symptoms don’t go away or become more severe

Important: Be sure to be seen within 48 hours of the onset of your fever. Treatment is only effective right away. If you need an appointment, call 844-322-4222 or schedule with Evolve online here. 

Call 911 if:

  • Trouble breathing
  • Severe headache or stiff neck associated with confusion or excessive drowsiness

How Serious is Flu?

According to the CDC, flu seasons are unpredictable and can be severe. Anywhere from 3,000 to 49,000 people die each year from the flu.

Contagion

People with flu are contagious beginning 1 day before symptoms develop and up to 5 to 7 days after becoming sick.

Bottom Line

If you or someone in your family has sudden onset of high fever, whole body aches, chills and feels generally awful, see your provider right away. A rapid Flu Test is available to get an answer in 10 minutes. And remember the only treatment must be started within 2 days of symptom onset. 

If you need to be seen immediately, Evolve Medical Clinics is happy to see you as a walk-in or you can schedule a visit on-line here or call 844-322-4222. 

If you would like regular health and wellness updates, you can follow Evolve on social media: Facebook, Twitter, Google+ or Instagram. To learn more about Evolve Medical and why they are Annapolis’ highest rated primary care and urgent care, watch this brief video!

Evolve Medical Clinics youtube primary care urgent care
Video: How to and Why Evolve
Evolve Medical Clinics bring unprecedented access to Annapolis for Primary or Urgent Care
Evolve Medical Clinics bring unprecedented access to Annapolis for Primary or Urgent Care
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