ALLEN COUNTY, Ohio (WLIO) — Health officials are reporting a noticeable increase in respiratory illnesses circulating throughout the region, including the flu, COVID-19 and common colds.
Allen Public Health says local hospitals are seeing more patients seeking treatment for these illnesses. During the month of December, 19 people in Allen County were hospitalized with the flu, while 28 individuals were hospitalized with COVID-19. Officials say three additional flu-related hospitalizations were reported today.
The Ohio Department of Health has also confirmed the state’s first pediatric flu-related death of the season. The victim was a teenage girl from Greene County. Allen County Health Commissioner Brandon Fischer says health officials are closely monitoring the situation both locally and statewide.
Brandon Fischer Allen County Health Commissioner says, "I don't think there are any restrictions here locally, but some areas of the state are doing some restrictions on visiting hospitals just due to the increase. So it is important with the increases, if you haven't received your yearly flu shot, to get that flu shot, while it may not prevent you from getting the flu, it can offer you your body a little bit of protection to fight off the flu a little quicker."
In addition to getting the flu vaccine, health officials encourage residents to take simple preventative steps to reduce the spread of illness. These include washing hands frequently and covering mouths when coughing or sneezing.
