The Minnesota Department of Health is tracking an increase in the number of cases of influenza in the state with 35 schools reporting outbreaks.
At least one school switched to online learning this week after one in five students turned up sick.
"Each case of influenza who was hospitalized is reported and that way, they are at the hospital and so they are actually tested for influenza. So we know that it's influenza rather than some other respiratory illness," explains state epidemiologist Melissa McMahon.
She says they also track outbreaks in schools and senior living facilities. As for others?
"You know, it's perfectly acceptable to just wait it out," McMahon says. "You certainly don't have to go to a doctor and know if it's flu versus some other respiratory illness. As long as you are able to manage your symptoms at home and just kind of wait it out."
She adds they encourage everyone to get vaccinated, as even if you get sick it won't be as bad.
"Even if you get flu, if it keeps you out of the hospital or, you know, needing to get antiviral drugs," McMahon said. "And, you know, in, in some cases, flu can be fatal. We do see influenza-related deaths every year."
As for the people getting sick right now, McMahon says there's a key symptom that shows it is influenza.
"I would say the kind of key defining characteristic is that people describe it as like a hit by a truck feeling," McMahon adds. "It's, you know, that really just kind of deep fatigue and body aches. Usually people describe like their whole body hurts."
How to prevent spreading influenza:
- Cover your cough and sneezes
- Wash your hands
- Stay home when sick
- Clean frequently touched surfaces
- If sick, wear a mask to prevent the spread of flu