Flu activity on the rise in Sikeston

SIKESTON -- Stock up on tissues, over-the-counter pain relievers and cold medicines because the flu season is here.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, flu activity is increasing in the United States but has likely not yet peaked for season. For the week ending Jan. 8 -- the most recent data available -- the CDC reported Missouri had regional geographic flu activity.

Registered nurse Joy Cauthorn, who is certified in infectious disease control, said Missouri Delta Medical Center is beginning to see more cases of influenza.

"We've had four patient admissions -- two children and two adults -- within the past two weeks for the flu. Then we've been seeing some in the emergency room and Express Care, and there have been staff who've had it, too," said Cauthorn who is also responsible for emergency planning at the hospital.

The Sikeston hospital saw only two flu cases during the entire fall season, Cauthorn noted. Most of this month's confirmed cases have been influenza A, she said.

"I've spoken to emergency management officials, and Sikeston is seeing more flu than Cape, Dexter and Fredericktown," Cauthorn said.

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