New report records over 2,000 flu cases in Boone County
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
Two people in Boone County died from COVID-19 last month, bringing the total county number of deaths since the start of the pandemic to 299. The information comes from the latest Columbia Boone County Health Department report.
According to the report, 65 positive COVID-19 tests have been reported in the county since March 29. Of the two that died, both were over 65 years old.
Also between March 1 and April 7, Boone County reported 2,601 cases of the flu. 2,364 of those cases fell under Influenza A and the other 234 cases fell under Influenza B. Three of the cases were categorized as unknown types.
The CDC reports the aptly named “flu season” to last from the fall months to the winter season but clarifies that it can have lasting effects until May. Since 1982, many past flu seasons hit their peak during February, according to the CDC.
Because flu and COVID-19 symptoms share many similarities, officials encourage testing whenever there’s uncertainty. Tests for both can be found with healthcare providers, clinics and areas like Walgreens and CVS.
Warmer weather doesn’t automatically mean the end of flu season. To stay healthy this spring, residents should continue to wash their hands, cough into their elbow or sleeve, and stay home to rest whenever they’re not feeling well.
