OKC Doctors Seeing Early Flu Cases This Year

Doctors in Oklahoma City say they have already diagnosed flu cases in September.

Dr. Kristin Lewis is an internal medicine and pediatric specialist at Mercy Clinic Primary Care – Edmond Waterloo. She said this is earlier than normal, which means it could be a bad flu season.

Lewis is recommending her patients to get their flu vaccinations soon. However, this year she is not recommending the flu mist, the spray given through the nostrils. Her concern is that there may be possible issues from the flu mist causing lung problems.

“I would rather make sure they are completely safe with just the regular vaccine,” said Lewis. She is encouraging people to stick to the classic shot.

Lewis said the shot will not only prevent the nasty illness, but it will also prevent possible repercussions from the flu, like pneumonia. While the vaccine is optional, she thinks it’s worth a shot.

She recommends people to consult their doctor because there are different strengths of flu shots.