If you’ve been feeling under the weather, you’re not alone. Indiana health officials are sounding the alarm over a sharp rise in flu cases, with hospitals seeing an influx of patients and visitor restrictions coming into effect.
Hospitals Struggle as Flu Cases Climb
Emergency rooms across Indiana are filling up fast. Lutheran Hospital reports a nearly 20% spike in ER visits in the past two weeks, with flu cases being the main culprit. Dr. Jack Scott, an emergency physician at the hospital, says this surge is putting immense pressure on medical staff.
Dr. Thomas Gutwein, Allen County’s Health Commissioner, notes that while this season hasn’t yet reached the severity of the 2009 flu outbreak, it’s getting dangerously close.
Visitor Restrictions in Place
To curb the spread of the virus, some hospitals are enforcing new rules. Parkview Health has implemented visitor restrictions, limiting who can enter its facilities.
The restrictions aim to protect vulnerable patients from exposure. Hospital administrators stress that while these measures may be inconvenient, they are necessary to prevent further outbreaks.
Flu-Related Deaths Continue to Rise
The Indiana Department of Health has reported 52 flu-related deaths this season. Experts worry that number could rise as infections continue to spread.
Health officials emphasize the importance of preventive measures. Dr. Gutwein underscores three key steps:
- Wash your hands frequently to reduce the risk of infection.
- Stay home if you’re sick to avoid spreading the virus.
- Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing to protect those around you.
Flu Shot: Still Worth Getting?
If you haven’t gotten a flu shot yet, there’s still time. Dr. Gutwein insists that getting vaccinated now can still offer protection for the rest of the season.
“Based on the numbers we’re seeing today, getting a flu shot today would still likely give you benefit this flu season,” he says.
How Indiana Compares to Past Flu Seasons
Health officials are tracking this flu wave closely, comparing it to previous outbreaks. Here’s how this season stacks up:
| Year | Severity | Hospitalizations | Deaths |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2009 | High | Very High | 70+ |
| 2017 | Moderate | High | 50+ |
| 2025 | Rising | Increasing | 52 |
The data suggests Indiana could be on track for one of its worst flu seasons in years. Officials are urging residents to take precautions seriously to avoid overwhelming hospitals further.
