Cherokee County EMA Reports Widespread Flu Activity, Urges Residents to Take Precautions

T.L. Sullivan | The Weekly Ledger News | Local News | Public Health

CHEROKEE COUNTY, Ala. — Cherokee County is currently experiencing widespread flu activity, according to information released by the Cherokee County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) through its official social media page.

EMA officials report that the majority of positive flu test results are Influenza A (Flu A), with multiple flu strains circulating, including H1N1, H3N2, and one Influenza B strain. The increase in illness has been felt across the community, with a noticeable rise in student and teacher absences as well as increased impact on families and workplaces.

Information shared by Cherokee County EMA states that this year’s flu vaccine is a trivalent vaccine, designed to protect against three flu strains based on national surveillance data from the previous flu season. While flu viruses evolve annually and some circulating strains may not be fully covered, studies show that vaccination can reduce the risk of flu illness by approximately 40 to 60 percent when the vaccine is well matched. Even when the match is not exact, vaccination has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and complications, particularly among children, older adults, and individuals with underlying health conditions.

EMA officials emphasized that flu vaccines have a long-standing and strong safety record. Serious adverse reactions are rare, and most individuals experience only mild side effects such as soreness at the injection site or mild fatigue. Residents are reminded that it takes approximately two weeks after vaccination for full protection to develop. Flu vaccines remain widely available at local pharmacies throughout the county.

Cherokee County EMA Director Rogers addressed the importance of accurate public health information.

“Vaccination is a personal choice, and Cherokee County EMA believes it is important that residents have accurate information so they can make well-informed decisions that are best for themselves and their families,” Rogers said.

At this time, very little COVID-19 or RSV activity has been observed locally, according to EMA officials. Some cases of human metapneumovirus have been identified through laboratory testing of respiratory swabs that were sent out for analysis; however, influenza remains the primary public health concern in Cherokee County.

Residents are encouraged to take preventive measures to reduce the spread of illness, including frequent handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, cleaning frequently touched surfaces, and staying home when sick. Medical care should be sought if symptoms worsen or become severe.

Cherokee County EMA also reminded residents to use emergency medical services and hospital emergency departments for true medical emergencies only. For routine flu symptoms, mild illness, and non-emergency medical concerns, residents are encouraged to seek care through local primary care providers, medical clinics, or urgent care facilities whenever possible. This helps ensure that EMS and emergency departments remain available for serious or life-threatening emergencies.

The Weekly Ledger News will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as additional information becomes available from Cherokee County EMA and local healthcare partners. Readers are encouraged to follow The Weekly Ledger News for ongoing coverage of local, late-breaking, and community news across the region.

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