DeKalb County, January 1, 2026
News Summary
DeKalb County, Georgia is experiencing a significant increase in flu cases, reporting a 60% rise in flu-related emergency calls. The CDC has categorized flu activity as ‘very high.’ Health officials stress the urgency of vaccinations, with 317 hospitalizations reported in metro Atlanta. The season is marked by a severe new flu variant, and cases are expected to continue into spring. Basic hygiene practices and monitoring of vulnerable populations are essential to combat the spread of the virus.
DeKalb County, Georgia is facing a significant surge in serious flu cases, with a reported 60% increase in flu-related emergency calls in recent weeks. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has classified flu activity in the area as “very high.” This alarming trend has caught the attention of health officials, prompting them to emphasize the importance of vaccination as the most effective means of defense against the flu, noting that it is not too late to get vaccinated.
Dr. Reema Dbouk, an internal medicine physician at Emory Healthcare, has described this flu season as particularly severe and starting earlier than usual. A new and aggressive flu variant has been identified, which is causing various outbreaks nationwide. In the week ending December 20, the CDC reported a staggering 317 flu hospitalizations in metro Atlanta. Since October 4, Georgia has recorded a total of 16 flu-related deaths, raising concern among public health officials.
Despite changes in the virus from the previous year, health experts advise that the current vaccinations remain effective against the prevalent strains. Flu cases are anticipated to continue through the spring, and health officials are preparing for potential peaks in January and February, as has been historically observed during flu seasons.
The latest data reveals that Georgia has experienced 12 flu-related deaths, 13 outbreaks, and 501 total hospitalizations in the past 12 weeks. This has led to a statewide warning about the vulnerability of specific populations, including the elderly, young children, and individuals with compromised immune systems, who are at an increased risk for serious complications from influenza.
While most flu cases tend to be mild, they can be effectively managed at home through rest, increased fluid intake, and over-the-counter medications. Individuals experiencing severe or rapidly worsening symptoms are strongly encouraged to seek medical attention. Health officials recommend that people monitor themselves and their relatives for flu-like symptoms, advising them to contact Emory’s 24/7 flu hotline at 404-544-9358 for guidance on whether a medical consultation is necessary.
Basic hygiene practices are being highlighted as crucial preventive measures. Regular hand washing, proper disinfection of surfaces, and practicing appropriate coughing etiquette—coughing into elbows rather than hands—are essential behaviors that can help mitigate the virus’s spread. Emory Healthcare has also begun requiring masks for clinical staff in response to the elevated transmission rates.
As the season progresses, individuals are urged to check in on older adults and those in vulnerable groups to ensure they have essential supplies and care. The CDC recommends that all individuals aged 6 months and older receive a flu vaccination to reduce the likelihood of severe illness and hospitalization. Additional preventive strategies consist of wearing masks, improving ventilation in living spaces, and maintaining hand hygiene.
This flu season in Georgia is projected to be more severe than last year’s, with the predominant strain identified as influenza A (H3N2). Public health officials are closely monitoring the situation, reinforcing the need for community awareness and proactive health measures.
FAQ
What is the increase in flu-related emergency calls in DeKalb County?
A 60% increase in flu-related emergency calls has been reported in DeKalb County in recent weeks.
How does the CDC classify flu activity in DeKalb County?
The CDC has classified flu activity in DeKalb County as “very high.”
What is emphasized as the most effective defense against the flu?
Vaccination is emphasized as the most effective defense against the flu.
What recent statistics have been reported by the CDC for flu hospitalizations?
The CDC reported 317 flu hospitalizations in metro Atlanta in the week ending December 20.
What resources are available for individuals experiencing flu-like symptoms?
Individuals with flu-like symptoms are encouraged to call Emory’s 24/7 flu hotline at 404-544-9358 for advice.
What preventive measures are recommended to reduce flu transmission?
Recommended preventive measures include regular hand washing, disinfecting surfaces, maintaining good ventilation, wearing masks, and following proper coughing etiquette.
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Additional Resources
- WSB TV: Metro Atlanta Sees Surge in Serious Flu Cases
- AJC: DeKalb County Issues Alert as Flu-Related 911 Calls Spike 60%
- 11 Alive: DeKalb Reports Significant Surge in Flu Related Illness
- Wikipedia: Flu
- WVTM: DeKalb County Teen Flu Death Smothers Alabama
- Google Search: Flu Season 2025
- WAFF: Ider High School Freshman Dies from Flu Complications
- Wikipedia: Influenza
- WYFF: Spartanburg Hospitals Visitor Restrictions Due to Flu Surge
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Flu
- Atlanta News First: Coughing and Hacking, Flu Cases Surge Across Georgia
- Google News: Flu Cases in Georgia
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
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