After reports of increased respiratory illnesses appeared in Maury County, Knox County Health officials are now reporting surges in influenza cases and hospital emergency room visits.

Cases of influenza and norovirus are escalating Nationwide with officials for the Knox County Health Department in particular saying they are seeing an increase in Influenza Type-A and a sharp increase in emergency room visits for illnesses such as rhinovirus, enterovirus, COVID-19, flu, and everything in between on the proverbial petri dish rainbow.

Currently, the biggest concern is influenza as the number of flu or flu-like illnesses has increased from 2.5% in October to 10% in December. The CDC’s flu tracking map shows cases in Tennessee going from the minimal category up to the very high category.

The best way to protect yourself from influenza, COVID-19, and other respiratory illnesses is with vaccination.

Those in Cumberland and Roane counties can find vaccinations at their local Health Department or pharmacy locations such as Kroger pharmacy and Walgreens.