Flu cases 'circulating' in central Ohio, health officials report

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) - It's flu season and health experts are seeing a rise in cases in Ohio.

According to Columbus Public Health, cases are circulating in the community. Dr. Mysheika Roberts, health commissioner with CPH, noted that flu activity can start as early as October and can go late into April, but said it's not unusual to see a peak in February or early March.

"I anticipate that we could see another peak, Roberts said. "This peak might settle down and we could see another peak before flu season is officially over."

Some flu symptoms to watch for include fatigue, body aches, fever, cough, headache, sore throat and more. If symptoms worsen, you are urged to seek medical care, especially for those who are 65 and older or have underlying health conditions.

"You'll know if you're sick enough, if you're not able to take fluids or if you're not able to eat anything … those are some of the signs that you need to seek some medical attention," Roberts said. "There is some medication that can be prescribed to you that can shorten the duration of your symptoms."

When it comes to getting a flu vaccine, Roberts recommends getting the flu shot in the early fall but noted it's not too late to get vaccinated if you still haven't. Anyone six months and older is eligible to receive a flu vaccine.

"The CDC is very clear, if you still see flu in your community, you should still get vaccinated against the flu," said Dr. Roberts.

To watch the full interview with Dr. Roberts, you can view it in the video player below.