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Michigan 'very high' for flu activity

CDC data shows an increase up 6% from the previous week, for the most recent week of reporting, Feb 18-24.

GRAND RAPIDS, Michigan — Michigan is seeing "very high" flu activity, per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 

The reporting is for the week of February 18 to 24. The data shows Michigan's flu activity is up 6% from the previous week.

"A lot of patients are coming in with respiratory symptoms," said Adam Quiring, a family nurse practitioner for University of Michigan Health-West. "We have the ability to test them here and then quite a few of them are testing positive for both flu A and flu B."

Quiring said they are seeing an increase in cases in the past few weeks. 

According to Michigan.gov, the state has issued 9.2% fewer flu vaccines than last season. The state has not met its goal of 4 million doses given this season, sitting at a little more than 2.8 million.

"I was just looking at some of the dashboard information for this year, and we have pretty decent coverage," said Quiring about the strains in the vaccine. "No year is perfect, right? The epidemiologists kind of track what strains of flu they believe will be circulating the globe, and we vaccinate based on those strains that are likely to be the ones causing disease. But there are strains that sometimes, you know, the vaccines don't cover, and that's where you see some of that breakthrough illness. But for the most part, they do offer pretty good coverage and they work quite well."

He said it is not too late to get a flu shot this season. Doctors recommend that everyone six months and older get one. 

Quiring said while it may be miserable for a few days, most people will be able to recover from the flu on their own. Over the counter modifications like Tylenol can help ease symptoms. Doctors can prescribe some further modification if symptoms are severe. Plenty of fluid, time off work, rest and relaxation are the keys to getting better. 

Avoid being around other people when sick; stay home if you are not feeling well. Also, wash hands frequently, avoid touching eyes and face during the day to prevent the spread of the flu. 

RELATED VIDEO: Lawmakers in Michigan consider bills to add defibrillators to schools

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