It's going around: Flu cases on the rise statewide; public health officials say to stay home if you feel ill

LOWVILLE- Is it the flu? Is it COVID? Is it RSV or a nasty common cold? Maybe it's all of the above, because whatever it is, there certainly seems to be quite a bit of sickness going around here in the North Country.

With that being said, say if you start to feel ill, health officials say it's best to stay home until you feel better. "Especially as we all start congregating indoors as it gets colder," said Deputy Director of Lewis County Public Health Anna Platz.  

Anna Platz image.

Be sure to listen to our latest on-air segment with Anna Platz for more details here:

According to New York's Department of Health Office, flu cases are going up substantially. Here is the latest chart as of this report (see the weekly updates posted online):

NYS DOH image as of this report.

In terms of COVID spread, all four counties within our listening region were considered to be "low" transmission as of this report. Check the latest COVID spread for your state and county via the Centers for Disease and Control.

If you haven't had your flu or COVID shots, public health officials say now is the time to schedule them. For more on getting a flu or COVID shot, be sure to visit your health provider.

You can also contact Lewis County Public Health at 315-376-5453.

Headline image via the CDC.