Flu cases in Missouri continue to rise

Flu numbers are on the rise in Missouri, with the last four weeks making record spikes.

According to the state health department, four weeks ago, there were fewer than 1,000 cases per week state wide. But last week, there were nearly 5,000 cases reported state wide.

Boone County had 739 confirmed flu cases as of Monday night. That’s up from 709 cases two weeks ago.

Callaway County has confirmed 225 flu cases this season.

And in Cole County, the numbers are now up to 521 flu cases.

In an effort to keep these numbers from rising, the Cole County Health Department is reminding everyone about the importance of frequent hand washing with soap and water and covering your mouth when sneezing or coughing to prevent spreading the flu.

The department also said to stay home from work or school if you come down with an illness and to limit contact with other people while you’re sick.

The age group seeing the most cases in Missouri are children ages 5 to 14. As of the end of last week, there were slightly more than 5,000 cases statewide in that age group.