Severe Flu Cases Rising in Aroostook

AROOSTOOK COUNTY, Maine (WAGM) - Flu cases are surging nationwide and we’re seeing the same trend here in Aroostook County. Local hospitals say they’ve seen a steady increase in flu patients since early December, and they’re urging anyone who feels sick to stay home when possible to help prevent the spread. Influenza is spreading across the county, and hospitals are reporting an increase in severe cases. Meanwhile, cases of other similar viruses like RSV and COVID remain low.

Julie Tutt, Infection Preventionist at AR Gould Hospital says: “We are at an elevated level for Influenza cases. Covid and RSV are pretty steady. They remain on the lower side of things but really what we’re seeing is that increase in Influenza. It’s what we’re seeing nationally and really across the state. We are seeing some more severe cases this season and a lot of that is due to this subclade K, which is a variant of H3N2, which is type A influenza. So, it is causing some more severe cases and increasing that spread that we’re seeing.”

Mary Allen, Infection Preventionist at Cary Medical Center adds: “A pretty significant increase in all influenza like illnesses, but especially influenza. This is worse than it has been in about 6 years, as predicted. We kind of predicted we’d have a more severe season. Probably in the last month we’ve seen numbers triple at least, as far as emergency department visits/hospitalizations.”

Some hospitals are also taking extra precautions and are encouraging locals to do the same. Tutt said: “You might see the staff wearing their mask when they’re interacting and providing patient care and then for visitors if you do have symptoms we do request that you delay that visit until you feel better.”

Allen emphasizes the importance of prevention: “Vaccination, it’s not too late. That’s probably the number one that will help at least even with severity if not contracting influenza itself. Also, good hand hygiene, staying home if you’re sick. Not venturing out and going to work.” If you come down with the flu or a similar virus and your symptoms get worse or don’t improve, hospitals say you should contact your health care provider. If symptoms become severe, they encourage you to stop by the emergency room.