Flu season is taking its toll on emergency rooms across the nation and right here in central Arkansas. Doctors at UAMS say a spike in flu cases this year are jamming up the ER. Flu-related cases are keeping UAMS's Dr. Randy Maddox especially busy in the ER these days.
"It's one of the worst epidemics we've had some years," says Dr. Maddox.
In the past few weeks Dr. Maddox says more than half of the patients coming to the ER here at UAMS displayed flu like symptoms.
"There has been an overcrowding especially over the last month. In all the hospitals in Little Rock… It's kind of overwhelmed our ER at times, there has been increased waiting times," says Maddox.
Flu symptoms may include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Weakness
"Our concern is, when people become increasingly ill and unable to care for themselves at home with various medications, Gatorade, PowerAde, Pedialyte, and when that's a problem we probably need to see them, “explains Dr. Maddox.
To avoid getting to that point, Dr. Maddox recommends getting a flu shot.
“It will decrease the flu [symptoms] and help prevent some of the serious complications. Some of the complications include pneumonia, people can get septic and die, and it's very serious in the very old and very young," says Maddox.
Maddox also encourages people to take precautions. "Strict hand washing, cover your mouth when you cough, and limit exposure to people," says Maddox.
Dr. Maddox also says if you’re sick, stay home.
This year the Arkansas Department of Health reports 3 people have died from the flu. A CDC panel is recommending all school aged children get the flu shot because doctors say schools can be a breeding ground for the flu virus.
