GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Health officials in Northeast Wisconsin are predicting a worse than normal flu season.
ThedaCare Pediatrician, Abby Smolcich, says one reason why this flu season could be a bad one, is because of Australia’s influenza report.
“We do use data and information from the southern hemispheres to kind of help us predict what we could expect to see here during our cold and flu season.”
Australia had its worst flu season in five years. Cases were three times higher than average, according to government reports.
Brittanie Pinter with Bellin Health cites another reason for a severe season: the lack of masks.
“With the increased masking and social distancing, we’ve seen fewer cases of influenza. This year, places have lightened up on those maskings and social distancing policies.”
Both health officials say the best way to protect yourself from the flu is to get the vaccine.
“And then really good hand washing. If you are sick — staying home. Not trying to spread illness and things like that,” said Pinter.
Anyone who is older than 6 months old is eligible for a flu shot. Young kids and older people are the most at risk if they get sick.
Smolicich says this year, there’s a new recommendation for those 65 and older.
“It’s recommended they get the higher dose and the adjuvanted flu vaccine,” said Smolicich. “That’s going to give extra protection for our older members of our community.”
According to the CDC, it takes about two weeks after getting the shot for your body to build up defenses against the flu.
Peak flu season hits between December and February.
“Ideally, you want to get your vaccine done before peak season,” said Smolcich. “Anytime in September, October, November are great times to get your flu vaccine.”
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