UMMC clinicians monitor Mississippi flu trends as national activity rises

Jackson, Mississippi — As influenza activity increases nationwide, clinicians at the University of Mississippi Medical Center are closely monitoring trends in Mississippi and reminding residents to take routine precautions, the medical center said.

Dr. Kendall McKenzie, chair of the Department of Emergency Medicine, is sharing guidance about what patients should know, when to seek care and how to reduce the spread of illness, according to a UMMC news release. The center directed readers to its website for additional information.

The University of Mississippi Medical Center, the state’s academic medical center, treats patients across a range of specialties and often coordinates public health messaging during seasonal outbreaks. Influenza typically causes more visits to doctors and emergency departments during winter months, and hospitals track local trends to prepare staffing and resources.

Health officials generally advise vaccination, frequent hand washing, staying home when ill and seeking medical care for severe symptoms or if a person is at high risk of complications. UMMC’s release reiterates those preventive measures. We will provide more information as it becomes available.