Many Southern Californians are unfortunately ringing in the new year with coughing, sneezing and a fever.
Influenza is spiking in the region, according to weekly tracking data from the California Department of Public Health .
Flu activity levels are generally “moderate” across the state; however, Southern California is seeing a disproportionately high number of positive cases.
“Now is a good time to get your flu shot to protect yourself against flu, its potentially serious complications, and reduce strain on our healthcare system,” the department urged.
Typical flu symptoms include fever or feeling feverish with chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, and fatigue. Some people may also experience shortness of breath, warm, flushed skin, red, watery eyes, and eye pain.
California’s flu rate for Dec. 24-30 was 16.8%, according to the CDPH, significantly above the national rate of 12%.