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As colder temperatures arrive and families prepare for holiday gatherings, Sedgwick County health officials report that local flu activity is currently following typical seasonal patterns.
While the situation is stable, medical professionals emphasize that flu vaccinations and preventive habits are crucial to keeping the community safe during the winter months.
Urgent Care Centers Stay Steady, but Not Overwhelmed
At AFC Urgent Care on North Rock Road, staff members have remained consistently busy, though nowhere near the intense pace seen during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dr. Samrah Mansoor, the clinic’s medical director, explained that the rush of precautionary COVID-related visits — once common during the pandemic — has not carried over into this year.
“During the COVID era, people frequently visited just to double-check before seeing loved ones in assisted care,” Mansoor said. “We’re not experiencing that level of concern this time around.”
Recognizing Flu Symptoms: “They Hit Hard”
According to Dr. Mansoor, flu symptoms are usually very clear and intense, making it difficult for patients to mistake the illness for something mild.
Classic Flu Indicators
She noted that most people will experience unmistakable signs such as:
- High fever
- Chills
- Severe body aches
- General exhaustion
“Flu typically doesn’t present mildly unless someone has a very strong immune system,” she said. “Unlike COVID, which can be asymptomatic yet contagious, the flu tends to hit hard — patients usually know instantly that they’re sick.”
Sedgwick County Illness Rates Show Expected Trends
Beverly Bruce, associate director of preventative health at the Sedgwick County Health Department, said that emergency rooms are reporting about 13% of visits due to respiratory illnesses, including flu, RSV, and COVID.
“So far, this aligns with what we expect at this time of year,” Bruce said.
Vaccination Uptake Improving Compared to Last Season
One encouraging update is the increase in flu vaccinations locally.
“We’ve administered more flu shots this year than we had by this time last year,” Bruce noted. “It’s a positive sign that more people are choosing to get immunized.”
National data echoes the trend. The CDC’s flu tracker currently lists Kansas as low to minimal in flu activity. However, surrounding states tell a different story — Colorado, in particular, is reporting high levels of flu cases.
Dr. Mansoor warns that even with regional differences, flu can spread quickly.
“People travel constantly. A person flying in from a high-activity state could easily bring the flu with them,” she said. “This is why extra caution is still important.”
When to Seek Care: Urgent Care Over Hospitals
Dr. Mansoor recommends choosing urgent care facilities instead of hospitals for flu symptoms.
Why Urgent Care is Better for Flu Cases
- Faster testing
- Shorter wait time
- Lower cost compared to hospital visits
- Reduced exposure risk for hospitalized patients with serious conditions
“It’s much safer and more convenient,” she said. “Hospitals have more vulnerable patients, and minimizing exposure is essential.”
Additional Illness to Watch: Whooping Cough
The Sedgwick County Health Department also warns residents about a national rise in whooping cough (pertussis). While adults may experience milder symptoms, the illness can be much more severe in children, making awareness and early detection important for families.
Although flu cases in Sedgwick County remain at average levels, health experts emphasize the importance of staying vigilant during winter.
Vaccinations, early detection, and using urgent care facilities when symptoms appear can significantly reduce community spread.
With nearby states experiencing elevated flu activity and increased travel during the holidays, Sedgwick County residents are encouraged to take proactive steps to protect themselves and their families.