Flu cases surge in Alexandria as new strain spreads
Health department urges vaccinations, precautions as emergency visits triple
Flu-related emergency department visits in Alexandria more than tripled over the last two weeks of December, according to the Virginia Department of Health.
During the week ending Dec. 27, there were 107 emergency department visits for diagnosed flu among Alexandria residents — 11.05% of all ED visits, according to health department data.
The Alexandria Health Department is urging residents to take precautions to stay healthy and stop the spread of germs.
A flu strain called subclade K is driving much of the illness this winter. The strain was not circulating when this year’s seasonal flu shot was designed, but health officials say the vaccine still protects against severe illness from subclade K and other strains.
“It is not too late” to get vaccinated, the health department said.
COVID-19 cases are also up, but flu is causing more severe illness, according to AHD.
To help stop the spread of flu and other respiratory illnesses, AHD recommends:
Washing hands regularly with soap and water for 20 seconds or using hand sanitizer
Covering coughs and sneezes with your inner elbow
Wearing a mask
Cleaning high-touch surfaces
Staying home until you feel better and have been fever-free for 24 hours
Using exhaust fans or air purifiers to circulate fresh air
Where to get vaccinated
Flu and COVID vaccines are available at pharmacies and primary care providers. Many also offer the one-time RSV shot for older adults and other high-risk individuals.
People without insurance can get vaccines at the Alexandria Health Department’s clinic at 4850 Mark Center Drive on a sliding fee scale. Call 703-746-4888 for appointments. AHD does not offer the RSV vaccine.
Clinic hours are:
Monday: 8 a.m. to noon and 2 to 6:30 p.m.
Tuesday and Wednesday: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Friday: 8 a.m. to noon
Teens ages 12-19 can also get vaccinated at the Teen Wellness Center at Alexandria City High School by calling 703-746-4766.
For help finding a vaccine, call AHD’s hotline at 703-746-4988 Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. More information is available at alexandriava.gov/Flu.