Despite a later than usual start to flu season in Maricopa County, the number of cases is dramatically higher than a year ago.
The county has recorded more than 17,000 flu cases this season. That’s a 42% increase from this point last year and more than 100% higher than the average of the last five years.
Travel and mutations of the virus are the leading factors for the spread.
A physician at an Honor Health clinic, Jared Berkowitz, now asks patients and staff to wear masks during appointments.
"It’s really kind of looking out for yourself and your fellow citizen around you. We are just trying to do the best we can to prevent spread, nothing’s perfect," Berkowitz said.
Samia Kadri, a Banner Health Urgent Care practitioner, said this year’s strand is stronger than previously seen and less people have gotten vaccinated.
“I have noticed that people are seeing ‘I didn’t get vaccinated this year’ and with those patients I am seeing more severe symptoms,” Kadri said.
Kadri said her team is always prepped for a busy flu season and still encourages people to get vaccinated for this season. After several days of heavy winds, Kadri thinks it's likely to see more flu patients in the coming days.
“It does take two to three weeks for your immune system to respond and build antibodies,” Kadri said. “In the future we recommend you get vaccinated in early October.”
Officials are predicting a busy remainder of the season, which typically runs through the end of February. Berkowitz urges people to get the flu shot, wash their hands frequently, and isolate themselves when sick.