MOBILE, Ala. — Urgent care clinics across Mobile and Baldwin counties say they are seeing a sharp rise in flu cases after a late start to the season.
Dr. Marty McDonald at Immediate Care of the South on Cottage Hill Road said his clinic has averaged about 20 lab-confirmed flu patients a day since the previous week. A Davidson High School student visiting the clinic described fever, sore throat, congestion and chest discomfort.
Seven urgent care clinics contacted in Mobile and Baldwin counties all reported being busy with flu patients, with one saying more than a dozen people were waiting before it opened at 8 a.m. At least two area schools, Clarke Preparatory School in Grove Hill and the Chickasaw Learning Center, closed because of illness. Doctors said most cases are Influenza A and recommended Tamiflu, rest and fluids for those diagnosed, along with a flu shot for those who have not yet been vaccinated.