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UPMC doctors say they’re already seeing an uptick in flu cases in our area

PITTSBURGH — UPMC doctors said getting back to normal after COVID-19 means the flu could have a huge impact on families this year.

It’s flu season and the virus is already spreading in our area.

At UPMC, doctors said they are already seeing an uptick in flu cases. That’s the trend across the country, unlike the past two years during the pandemic.

“Unprecedented and extremely unusual that we saw two seasons with virtually no influenza that’s going to happen again this season and that’s almost a guarantee,” said Dr. Graham Snyder with UPMC.

The flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself, even if you’ve been recently infected by COVID-19.

“If you had been recently infected with COVID-19 it doesn’t mean we have different protection from influenza,” said Snyder.

Snyder explained why it’s also safe to get the COVID-19 booster and flu shot at the same time.

“We know that from studies from people who have gotten them at the same time. One advantage of getting them at the same time is it’s easier to stop in and get both vaccines and be protected for both,” said Snyder.

Flu symptoms include fever, sore throat, runny nose, headache, cough and fatigue.

Doctors said the best way to know whether you have the flu or COVID-19 is by getting tested.

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