Flu Cases Start to Surge as Americans Prepare for Holiday Gatherings

MONDAY, Dec. 23, 2024 (HealthDay News) -- Predictably, flu season is in full swing, with cases surging across the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed Friday in a report.

Thirteen states, including Tennessee and Louisiana, report high or very high levels of flu-like illness, double the number from the previous week, Dr. William Schaffner, an infectious diseases expert at Vanderbilt University, told AP News.

According to the CDC, flu-related emergency room visits and lab test confirmations are rising steadily, marking the start of what could be a challenging winter for respiratory viruses.

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Allergy Information

What Are Seasonal Allergies?

More than 67 million americans suffer from allergy symptoms, including hay fever. But, what is an allergy? What is an allergic reaction? What are common allergy symptoms? What allergy treatments are available?

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What is Pollen?

Pollen is one of the most common allergens in the United States. Pollen is an airborne allergen, which is picked up and carried by the wind. Various trees, grasses and weeds create pollen, which can cause hay fever, irritate your eyes and skin.

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