Mid-Missouri's Unexpectedly Calm Flu Season: What's Making Kids Sick Instead?

Mid-Missouri is experiencing something unusual this year. As the weather gets colder, people usually expect more flu cases. But that's not happening right now. The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services reported only 348 flu cases across the state from November 16-22. That's considered low activity. In Boone County, there were 16 flu cases during that week. Cole County had four, and Cooper County had none. Since the start of the flu season, Missouri has seen 1, 376 cases in total. That's not a lot. But while flu cases are low, other illnesses are popping up. Doctors in the area are seeing more kids with different kinds of sicknesses. Dr. Mariah Allen, a pediatrician in Jefferson City, says most of these illnesses are viral. Kids are coming in with stuffy noses, coughs, and just feeling generally unwell. The top three illnesses Dr. Allen is seeing are upper respiratory infections, ear infections, and strep throat. Most cases are mild, but some kids are getting sicker. This usually happens with very young children or those who have conditions like asthma. Another doctor, Kate Dietz from MU Health Care, is also seeing a lot of viral infections. She's noticed an increase in croup, a viral illness that causes a distinct barking cough. Croup is common in kids under 4 years old. Dietz says the cough sounds like a seal and often gets worse at night. As for COVID-19, Dietz hasn't seen a big increase in cases. She's had a case or two, but nothing significant. With Thanksgiving gatherings happening, she doesn't think there's been an "uptick" in sick patients. She says changing weather and holiday gatherings naturally lead to more people getting sick. Both doctors recommend staying home if you're feeling sick. They also suggest washing your hands, wearing a mask, and staying away from vulnerable people. These simple steps can help keep everyone healthier.