A graphic shows rates of flu activity throughout the United States for the week ending Jan. 13.

The number of reported influenza cases in Mississippi fell slightly in the second week of 2024 but remains higher than it was at this time last year, according to data from the Mississippi Department of Health.

For the week ending Jan. 13, the most recent data available, health practitioners throughout the state reported 13,575 patients, with 893 presenting with influenza-like illness, which MSDH classifies as a fever above 100 degrees and a cough, sore throat or both.

The collected data gives the state a ILI rate of 6.6% for the week, down slightly from the 7.7% ILI rate the week before. For the week ending Jan. 13, 2023, the state saw an ILI rate of 3.4%.

The high rates of flu, however, are not equally distributed throughout the state. Of the nine health districts, districts 1, 2, 3, 4, 8 and 9 saw decreases in their ILI rates, while district 7 saw little change and districts 2 and 6 saw ILI rates increase.

District 6, which includes Lauderdale, Kemper, Clarke, Jasper, Newton, Neshoba, Leake, Scott and Smith counties, saw its ILI rate increase from 5.6% to 6.5%, MSDH data shows. The increase has been seen the most in those 5 to 24 years old, which is the age group making up a majority of the reported influenza cases this year.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s weekly influenza report shows flu cases are elevated throughout most of the country, and transmission in Mississippi remains especially high. The CDC estimates at least 180,000 people have been hospitalized due to the virus this year, and at least 11,000 have died.

A total of 47 pediatric deaths, which are those under 18, have been reported nationwide, two of which have been in Mississippi.

The CDC recommends an annual flu shot for those 6 months and older to help stop the spread of the flu and prevent severe illness from the virus. Adults 50 and older, those with chronic illness or weak immune systems, pregnant women and small children are particularly vulnerable to complications from flu.

Flu shots for children and uninsured adults are available through MSDH’s county health departments and are also available through many pharmacies and clinics. To find a flu vaccine provider visit vaccines.gov.

In addition to vaccine, MSDH recommends residents take simple precautions to prevent the spread of germs such as covering the nose and mouth when sneezing, washing hands with soap and water, disinfecting surfaces, avoiding touching the face, mouth and eyes and staying home when sick.

While the flu vaccine is the best way to prevent the flu, antiviral medications have been shown to shorten the time an individual is sick and lessen symptoms. The medications are available via prescription only, and residents interested in receiving them should discuss it with their doctor.

For more information about influenza and how to prevent it, visit msdh.ms.gov/flu.